Silver Strikers players walked away smiling on Sunday after First Capital Bank (FCB) chairman Hitesh Anadkat rewarded each of them with K1 million for defeating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets 2-0 to win the FCB 30 Years Trophy at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
The celebratory match, which marked the climax of FCB’s 30th anniversary festivities in Malawi, drew a lively crowd from both football giants. The stadium erupted in wild cheers when the master of ceremonies announced Anadkat’s generous cash reward to the victorious Central Bankers.
Motivated by both pride and the promise of a windfall, Silver Strikers hit the ground running, taking the lead just nine minutes into the match through a clinical finish by Binwell Katinji. Bullets responded with a string of chances, but both Lameck Gamphani and Paul Master narrowly missed equalising.
The pressure intensified when Silver Strikers doubled their lead in the 30th minute after a penalty was awarded following a foul on Innocent Shema in the box. The Bankers converted with ease, putting them firmly in control.
Despite Bullets’ spirited attempts to turn the tide, boosted by multiple substitutions from head coach Peter Mponda, the goals never came. The match took a dramatic turn in the 77th minute when Bullets’ goalkeeper Clever Nkungula was shown a red card for a foul, forcing outfield player Dominic Musonda to take over goalkeeping duties, as the team had used up all substitutions.
Silver Strikers assistant coach Mapopa Msukwa praised his squad for their resilience and determination.
“We had a good time; we used some of our reserve players and those who don’t play regularly. They have performed wonders and this was a good platform for them as they proved their worth,” he said.
On the other hand, Mponda admitted defeat but lauded the effort from his side.
“I am not happy that we lost the match, but we can’t blame the players because they fought hard to win. I am impressed with performances from Paul Master who hasn’t played for some time, but today he was good,” said Mponda.
Beyond the match, FCB also gave away branded items such as Bullets jerseys and offered fans using FCB cards a 50% discount on ticket prices, adding more color to the celebration of its 30 years of banking in Malawi.
