Black Stars are U-20 South champions

Black Stars have won the Southern Region Presidential Under-20 football championship in their first appearance after beating Sporting Leopards 2-1 at Kamuzu Stadium on Friday.

The Ndirande Township-based outfit, which was formed last February, went ahead early in the game through Frank Kadam’manja’s hard-low drive while Leopards equalised three minutes later through Leston Maganizo. The First-half ended 1-1.

Come second half, neither side appereared ready to go on the offensive. However, in the dying minutes of the game Leopards defenders fouled Telekeni Joseph right in the box. The referee awarded a penalty.

Joseph ably converted the spot kick to seal the victory for Black Stars and their supporters.

“I am lost for words to describe my excitement over this victory. It is something we did not expect considering the fact that this was our first competition since we formed the team last year. I salute my players for their dedication and zeal,” said Black Stars team manager Frank Kalima.

Leopards coach Patrick Sabuni blamed the loss on alleged poor officiation.

“Much as we accept defeat, we feel the referee did not do his job properly, especially in the second-half. He awarded the penalty to Black Stars despite the foul taking place outside the box,” claimed Sabuni.

For their feat, Black Stars received a trophy and K300 000 (about $1 796) whereas Leopards pocketed K200 000 (about $1 196).