National Sports

Mighty Wanderers overshadow Escom

Mighty Wanderers beat Escom United 2-1 in a Standard Bank Knockout Trophy quarter-final encounter at Balaka Stadium.

The Saturday victory translates into a 3-2 aggregate after the two sides drew 1-1 in the first leg. Wanderers advance to the semi-finals.

Wanderers scored through Gerald Chimbaka and Victor Mpinganjira whereas Chiukepo Msowoya, who came off the bench, scored from a spot kick for Escom.

Escom started on a high. They kept possession and controlled the pace of the game. Despite some nervy defending in the early stages, the Nomads were on course to take the lead after 25 minutes, thanks to Chimbaka’s stunning header.

Escom goalkeeper Charles Swini, who earlier did well to parry wide a Joseph Kamwendo shot, was helpless.

Two minutes later, Wanderers put the result beyond doubt when Gerald Phiri picked out Mpinganjira with a low pass. Escom responded by throwing in Msowoya and Noel Mkandawire for Eneya Banda and Lawrence Milanzi, respectively. They made an impact as they changed the texture of the game. At 44 minutes, Manase Chiyesa’s shot was cleared by Francis Mulimbika with goalkeeper Richard Chipuwa clearly beaten.

At 60 minutes, Mulimbika, in a desperate attempt to clear the ball, handled it in the box. Referee Patrick Kalonde awarded Escom a penalty, which Msowoya converted.

Delighted team manager Chiyembekezo Zidana said: “We are happy to win. We will prepare for the next round.”

His counterpart, Kondwani Gawani, conceded defeat and said they will concentrate on rebuilding the team in preparation for the second round of the league.

 

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