National Sports

Bullets date Silver in FAM Charity Shield finals

Chiukepo Msowoya’s late strike propelled Nyasa Big Bullets into the finals of the FAM Charity Shield at the expense of Kamuzu Barracks yesterday at the Bingu National Stadium.

In a later game, Silver Strikers’ new signings beat Be Forward Wanderers 2-0 to book the Shield’s final against Bullets.

Flashback: Bullets and Silver battling out at Bingu Stadium

Bullets had to come from behind to beat Kamuzu Barracks in a rare demonstration of resilience displayed at the same venue.

Kamuzu Barracks deservedly led 1-0 at half-time, after a scintillating performance that simply overwhelmed Nyasa Big Bullets.

The combination of Diuof Simaone, Mude Jeffrey and Dave Banda was so lethal, tearing Bullets at will.

In five minutes of play, Bullets already conceded two corner-kicks.

In the 7th minute, Chimwemwe Chisambi was guilty of missing the easiest of chances. He shot wide from close range, after Bullets goalkeeper Ernest Kakhobwe had fumbled a long range shot from Simaone.

It was unbelievable, and the ganyu fans booed him as expected.

Bullets had an opportunity to level a couple of minutes later, but Chiukepo Msowoya headed wide from a Fischer Kondowe cross.

But KB recovered and never let up the offence as they pressed for a goal. Bullets midfield of Nelson Kangunje, Fischer Kondowe, Bashir Maunde and Patrick Phiri was simply outclassed and failed to contain the pressure, making it difficult for their defence. No wonder KB scored in the 35th minute.

The goal came in a spectacular fashion. A well curved ball from Pempho Kansichiri found an advancing Ndaona Daisi, who defied gravity to head the ball past Kakhobwe.

Bullets came into the second- half a changed side, taking the game to Kamuzu Barracks with some attacking football.

Precious Phiri, Chimango Kaira [who had replaced Patrick Phiri], and Kangunje started surging forward with blistering speed as Bullets fought for a goal.

They got level in the 47th minute, through Bright Munthali after Msowoya’s header was fumbled into play by KB goalkeeper Leman Nthara.

Seeking to energise the midfield Bullets introduced Henry Kabichi for Kangunje.

After continued pressure, Bullets got the lead in the 86th minute through Chiukepo Msowoya from a Fischer Kondowe cross.

“We have shown great character to come from behind to win this clash. We knew KB could not maintain that kind of pace for 90 minutes. We changed the system and told the boys to increase the pace. It worked,” said Bullets team manager James Chilapondwa.

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