Epac talk tough on Standard Bank quarter-final encounter

With their K20 million (about $80 000) Standard Bank Knockout Trophy quarter-final meeting sealed, Epac FC have started the mind games, taunting Big Bullets and their young talisman Gabadinho Mhango.

Epac general secretary Roy Abromo Mdechi on Tuesday challenged that his charges are not shaken by the threat which Bullets and Gabadinho, in particular, pose in the two-legged quarter-final likely to take place early next month.

“We are not afraid of Bullets. We have in the last two seasons met them three times in both cup and league games and in all the games, Gabadinho never finished a game,” said Mdechi.

“We know how to keep him under check. Our target in the first away leg is to win or at least force a draw, then finish off Bullets in the second leg.”

In the previous game, Bullets cheated defeat through Diverson Mlozi’s last-gasp equaliser, but Mdechi challenged that “this time around, Bullets would not have any chance to score.”

In a post-match interview with Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS) after dismissing Blantyre United 4-1 in the last preliminary round match at Kamuzu Stadium on Saturday, Bullets coach Eddington Ng’onamo said it was time for revenge against Epac.

“Anatichita chipongwe [they punished us] a Epac and this time around, we will go for revenge,” said Ng’onamo whose side has a tight schedule, including a Presidential Cup final against Moyale Barracks on August 26.

On Saturday, Bullets joined in the last eight, seven other teams including holders Blue Eagles.