Decisive weekend for Escom
Escom United are seeking to avoid relegation from the Super League as they face Mafco today and Silver Strikers tomorrow.
The Electricians’ coach Alex Masanjala has warned his players that they could struggle to stay up in the league if the games against Mafco and Silver go against them.
With just a few games left, Silver will fight to consolidate their lead at the top as they search for TNM glory. They have 48 points while Escom have 19.
On the other hand, Mafco are also fighting relegation, so it will be tough for Escom as the soldiers are tough to beat, especially when they play in the humid conditions of Dwangwa.
Mafco are fourth from the bottom with 25 points,
“These are the two games we desperately need to win. Of course, we still have three games, but we have to win this weekend to ease the pressure on us,” said Masanjala.
Escom will be without striker Chiukepo Msowoya who left Wednesday night to join a Mozambican club he recently signed for.
“We had hoped he [Chiukepo] would be with us. He is an important player, but we still have the players to win us a match if only they put their heart to it. We still have a chance to stay in the league, but the players need to give their all,” said Masanjala.
He still has the likes of Noel Mkandawire and Bernard Harawa who can change the game in their favour. Jacob Ngwira can also be tough in defence and can stop Silver’s Green Harawa, Harvey Nkacha and Rodrick Gonani.
Silver coach Franco Ndawa is also a man on a mission to save his job and that can only happen if he brings silverware at Area 47. Masanjala will also want to go into the folklore at Escom as the man who helped the team to avoid relegation.
Silver, who beat Kabwafu FC 4-0 last weekend have been of late sharp in fron of goal and Masanjala is right to appreciate that fact.
Ndawa said they have prepared for the game and cannot afford to lose it.
Mafco coach Stereo Gondwe said they are ready to take on Escom.
“We are at a crucial stage as we are left with just a few games. But we will try to win every game and stay in the league. It will be tough against Escom as thy also want to beat relegation,” said Gondwe in a telephone interview from Salima. n
