Nomads beat rivals in Independence Day Celebrations

Be Forward Wanderers have won bragging rights following their 1-0 win over rivals Nyasa Big Bullets in an Independence Day Celebrations clash yesterday at the Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre.

Bullets came into this game looking to end a winless run of two matches.

On the other hand, the Nomads were desperate to beat Bullets, who have been giving them headache.

The first clear cut chance of the game came in the 13th minute after Luke Chima played a clever long ball to Pilirani Zonda, but goalkeeper William Thole came to the rescue.

Bullets featured most of their Reserve side players apart from Henry Kabichi, Fischer Kondowe, Bashir Maunde and Charles Petro while Wanderers also had players who are not in their first XI, save for Wongani Kaipa and Francisco Madinga.

Both teams played entertaining football but Wanderers enjoyed much of the ball while Bullets struggled as most of their players lacked experience.

Kondowe tried on many occasions to curve crosses inside the Nomads box, but Bullets striking force was too blunt.

However, in the 52nd minute, Wanderers scored through Madinga who beat two defenders before shooting in the far corner of the net. Not to be outdone by their rivals, Bullets swiftly changed gear and started taking the game to the Nomads.

However, Wanderers controlled the game in the midfield where Rafiq Namwera gelled well with Simeon Singa.

Bullets must be commended for their efforts in the second half as they gave a good account of themselves in search of an equaliser.

But the resilient Nomads defence led by the ever-green captain of the day Wongani Kaipa ensured that thet walked home celebrating.

The drama-filled encounter had everyone sitting on the edge of their seats for most parts of the game but after all was said and done, it was the Nomads who left the stadium with smiles on their faces.

President Peter Mutharika, who was the high profile guest at the match, gave each team K5 million.