Gaba’s game drought ends

South Africa-based Malawian forward Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango’s 11-game drought ended on Sunday when he featured as a substitute for his club Orlando Pirates against Liberian side LPRC Oilers.

The Flames striker was thrown in as a second half substitute as the Buccaneers emerged 2-0 winners in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage playoffs in Liberia.

The 29-year-old forward said in an interview yesterday that he was relieved to bounce back to action.

He said: “I can’t explain how relieved I was to get a run.

“It has been a while since I last played and it felt good to be back on the field.”

Mhango said that Pirates won the game, added extra spice to his return.

“No player wants to be on the bench. So, I hope this is the beginning of good things to come,” said Mhango.

According to kickoff.com, nearly scored on his return from a free-kick, barely seconds after his introduction.

Before Sunday’s match, Mhango, who won the 2019/20 Premier Soccer League (now DStv) golden boot, last played for Pirates against Stellenbosch on August 24.

Meanwhile, his compatriot Richard Mbulu also made the starting line-up for Baroka FC when they lost 3-2 to Lomontiville Golden Arrows.

Mbulu created the second goal for Baroka, but was shown the red card in the 70th minute for violent conduct.

Flames coach Meck Mwase said it was relieving to see Mhango back in action.

He said: “His lack of game time has been our concern of late and his latest appearance gives us hope.

“To see Mbulu in the starting line-up was also a big boost considering that he has been coming in as a substitute. It is just unfortunate that he was shown the red card.”

Elsewhere, Flames captain Limbikani Mzava was an unused substitute when AmaZulu were held to a one-all draw by Maritzburg.