KB complete Fisd Challenge Cup final pair
Kamuzu Barracks (KB) FC thoroughly closed down all Silver Strikers escape routes and, with relentless power and ceaseless conviction, thwarted all their strategies before gunning them down 1-0 in the Fisd Cup semi-final at Silver Stadium in Lilongwe yesterday.
Manase Chiyesa’s 77th minute volley was enough for the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) side to secure a final berth and with it a clash with Be Forward Wanderers who beat Blue Eagles by a similar margin on Saturday.
Silver started with Green Harawa, who has just returned after a stint in Mozambique, in the attacking force and with their captain fantastic Lucky Malata injured, Naston Halazi joined the defensive fray.
But the changes did not disrupt the KB’s game plan as they paralysed the Bankers’ passing and attacking football with experienced defensive midfielder Dave Banda and defenders Pilirani Makupe and Vincent Mphepo the focal point of that particular mission.
The game plan worked as the hosts never created many meaningful scoring chances and if they did, man of the match Lemani Nthala could not be breached.
KB coach Billy Phambala could not hide his excitement after the match.
“Credit should go to my players for playing according to instructions. It was a tough match, but they did what they were required to.
“Now we have to prepare for the final match against Wanderers and I am optimistic that we will do well,” he said.
His Silver counterpart Lovemore Fazili admitted that his team appeared out of sorts.
“We did not play well. We had a couple of good chances, but unfortunately, we did not utilise them. Our friends had one chance and they made good use of it.
“Maybe it wasn’t just our day. Congratulations to KB and we wish them well as they look forward to the final match against Wanderers,” he said.
Fisd brands manager Maxwell Phiri said they are now looking forward to the final showdown.
“It was a tough and exciting match, but in a game of football there can only be one winner. So, congratulations are in order for KB,” he said.
The final match is slated for December 10 at Civo Stadium in the capital city, but it is reported that FAM and Fisd are negotiating with government to have the finals played at Bingu National Stadium. n
