Nyasa Big Bullets Reserve started their title defence on a poor note on Sunday when they lost 2-3 to Fomo FC in a scintillating ThumbsUp Southern Region Football Association (SRFA) League Premier Division at Mulanje Park.
Fomo, who settled for 16th place finish on the 22-team log-table last season, secured their victory through Venancio Masambuka’s brace and Kondwani Severe’s strike while Reserve got their goals through Lanjesi Nkhoma and Mark Lameck.
Reserve coach Enos Chatama attributed their loss to naivety among most of his charges, who have just joined the side after the exit of most of their key players.
“We performed well today especially in the second half, but I am not happy with the avoidable goals we conceded. However, we accept the defeat and we will go back to the drawing board to rectify our mistakes,” he said.
After winning the league last season, Reserve saw their goalkeeper Ellias Missi, golden-boot winner Hassan Kajoke, midfielder Chimwemwe Idana and defender Charles Petro being promoted to Bullets’ main team.
Nevertheless, Fomo coach George Napwiya said he is happy that his charges have plucked a victory to have hopes of fighting for the ultimate glory this season.
SRFA chairperson Raphael Humba said they are satisfied that the season has finally started on high with financial backing from their new sponsors Rab Processors Limited through soft drink brand ThumbsUp.
“We expect a very competitive league this season as Fomo’s victory shows they are no longer easy-to-beat teams,” he said.
Rab marketing manager Anthony Kafuwa said they were impressed with the good patronage during the opener, which aid is a sign that their products will soon become popular through their sponsorship.
