Mussa Manyenje scored the only goal in the first half to inspire Nyasa Big Bullets to a 1-nil hard fought victory over Dwangwa United on Sunday as the defending champions remain just a point behind league leaders Kamuzu Barracks who also won against Blue Eagles away from home.
Bullets produced a stunning second half performance at Kamuzu stadium in which they created more than eight clear goal scoring opportunities but Muhammad Sulumba was the villain as he scored none.
Dwangwa United lacked firepower as they failed to attack, with Frazer Menyani being used as the lone striker.
The first chance fell through to Sulumba who fired over the upright from Fischer Kondowe’s well taken cross. Moments later, Jack Chiona tested Ernest Kakhobwe in goals for the home team with a long range effort that was easily dealt with by the former Azam Tigers shot-stopper.
Bullets then took their lead through Manyenje whose first attempt came off the post but Dalitso Sailesi’s cross from the rebound fell to him again and this time he found the back of the net. Bullets brought in Henry Kabichi for ineffective Anzeru Joseph to try to control the midfield where they were struggling. Benson Manyozo’s 35 metre attempt was tipped over the cross-bar by Kakhobwe who wasn’t troubled by the visitors’ front line.
Come second half, Bullets created a chance through Manyenje who shot straight at Philimon Bannet in goals for the rookies. Bullets then brought in Mike Mkwate for Sailesi and this change was what they needed as the home team started playing well in the midfield where the young lad was operating from.
Bullets had several chances in this half, with Sulumba hitting the post in an unbelievable circumstances.
Moment later, Sulumba was found unmarked in the box with the goalkeeper already beaten but the former Be Forward Wanderers and Blantyre United forward fired wide from the goalmouth. Dwangwa were under siege as Mkwate outsmarted them in the midfield.
Bullets could have had more than four goals in this half but Sulumba was at it again, missing clear-cut chances inside Dwangwa’s penalty box.
Despite being under pressure, substitute Innocent Makalani almost silenced the home fans but his weak header was well saved by Kakhobwe.
Sulumba had to be substituted for Chiukepo Msowoya who had his shots at goal well cleared by the visitors and after 90 minutes of entertaining football, Bullets stood firm to collect maximum points but were unable to dislodge Kamuzu Barracks who got the better of Blue Eagles at a waterlogged Nankhaka Stadium.
This means the people’s team are still second with 54 points, a point behind the Soldiers with two games each to play before wrapping up the season.
As for Dwangwa, they must win their last game against the Soldiers if they are to completely run away from the drop zone.
