Chavula ready to lead Flames

 

Defender Moses Chavula says he is ready to lead the Flames in a bitter memory eraser mission in Chad on Wednesday as the Flames start the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Chavula will captain the team in the absence of Peter Mponda, who is injured, and vice-captain Elvis Kafoteka who is attending trials in Thailand.

The Amazulu midfielder said Malawians have bitter memories of the team’s last visit to Chad in October last year when the Flames gave away a precious 2-1 lead to draw 2-2 and eventually fail to qualify for the 2012 Afcon finals.

He said he has a huge responsibility to motivate the players most of whom will be travelling with the senior team for the first time.

“This is a crucial game as it will determine our future in the qualifiers. Now we have players who stand to earn debuts at senior level and they need to be encouraged.

“I have played at this level for some time now and I am ready for the task. I believe I have the qualities to lead the team.

“The country is expecting a lot from us after the October tragedy, so we need to go there and give them something that will erase the bitter memories,” he said.

Kinnah has taken on board a number of new faces most of whom are yet to play at this level and there are fears that this could be mission impossible.

Chavula added that young players need to be given support and a chance and the Chad game is the right platform.

“I remember playing my first competitive game against Botswana straight from the Super League after featuring in only one friendly game. But I stood up to be counted and scored an important equaliser because I was given a chance and encouragement.

“The guys that are travelling to Chad have played tough matches before at the Cecafa and that is enough for them to stand the heat in Chad,” he said.

Chavula added that he is happy that he is once again commanding a first choice place at Amazulu.