National Sports

Silver survive Eagles’ scare

An injury time Michael Tetteh brilliant goal hooked Silver Strikers off the jaws of defeat to draw one-all against Blue Eagles in a TNM Super League encounter at Silver Stadium on Sunday.

Striker Foster Biton had put dominant Eagles ahead in an action-packed first half that saw the visitor’s goalkeeper John Soko save a penalty.

With the added five minutes ticking to finality, Tetteh was set up just outside the box. He rolled the ball once and curled it into the top right corner. The roar from the half-packed stadium spoke volumes about the prevalent relief from the hosts.

Netted the late equaliser for Silver: Tetteh

Soko lay animated on the ground while kneeling Eagles defender Wonder Jeremani, probably stunned with disbelief, buried his head between his arms.

The Bankers remain fourth with 29 points from 16 games, seven points adrift of league leaders Be Forward Wanderers while Eagles are fifth with 28 points.

Silver assistant coach Abbas Makawa said he was contented with the salvaged point, considering that it was his first game.

“It was a tough game, therefore, to get a point under such circumstances it was pleasing. I would have felt really bad if we lost the match,” he said.

Silver, a side synonymous with a passing game, were overwhelmingly outplayed by Eagles in the opening half. Their midfield was paralysed and their striking force muted.

Striker Micium Mhone, who was later taken off after sustaining an injury, volleyed over from close range, striker Foster Biton headed over while Schumachar Kuwali rolled his shot wide.

After the half hour mark, Eagles could have paid a price for their wastefulness as Silver were awarded a penalty, albeit a contentious one.

Defender Onesimo Mbendera jumped to block a shot with his back facing the ball. It hit his arm and referee Chidziwitso Simbi pointed to the spot.

The Eagles players protested vehemently but it did not pay anything. Luckily though, goalkeeper John Soko saved. Justice served?

The cops continued to torment the Bankers offensively and finally broke the deadlock. On the 45th minute, Boston was fed the ball just outside the penalty box. The towering hitman, spurned his marker before unleashing a ferocious strike into the net.

Eagles coach De Klerk Msakakuona said they were hurt with the draw because they were in control of the match for long spell.

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