The game ended in a goalless draw in regulation time.
Bullets Fischer Kondowe could easily have been the villain after he missed a decisive penalty, but, fortunately for him, Civo’s Lameck Kamanga and Oscar Chapitapansi also missed theirs.
Rackib Milanzi and Lusekelo Mwathengere converted theirs for Civo whereas Douglas Chirambo, Jelesi Lufeyo, Fundi Akidu and George Mkandawire were on target for Bullets.
Mkandawire was the hero of the day. He sent Bullets fans, who had come in their large numbers, into ecstasy as they invaded the pitch and joined their players in a triumphant dance.
Surprises of the day were former Bullets defender Wyson Nkana and Mafco’s Chapitapansi who were in Civo colours.
On the other hand, Mafco goalkeeper Owen Chaima was on Bullets bench.
In interviews after the game, Nkana said he has left Bullets permanently and will sign for Civo next season.
“Life was not easy at Bullets. I could not sustain myself. I had to come here because most of my family members are in Lilongwe,†he said.
Chaima also said he is done with Mafco and now wants to help Bullets win trophies next season.
Meanwhile, Bullets assistant coach Gerald Phiri, believes his team’s performance heralds new things to come.
“We were better than Civo. We created a lot of chances. Once again, it was evident that the problem we have is in striking force,†said Phiri.
Civo coach Alex Masanjala, who featured many new players, acknowledged that Bullets were a better team, but said the Big Eight Tournament will give them platform to build a team which can steer them to defend the Presidential Cup.
