‘Not a formality’
The TNM Super League title might already be in the bag for Nyasa Big Bullets, but the People’s Team has declared that this afternoon’s match against Silver Strikers at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre will not be a formality as they have a score to settle with the Central Bankers.
Silver booted out Bullets from the Fisd Challenge Cup 10 days ago with a 2-0 victory and the People’s Team captain John Lanjesi says they will be out to avenge that defeat.
“Yes, we already sealed the title, but we still have another task tomorrow, to avenge that painful defeat.
“Our hopes to win a cup competition went up in smoke after that loss and we will, therefore, go flat out to win.
“To us, this is not a formality, but a must-win match and we are taking it seriously,” he said.
On his part, Bullets team manager James Chilapondwa said: “Our supporters come to watch good football. They don’t come to watch mediocrity.
“So, we will go there to give our fans an early Christmas gift.”
On the other hand, Silver assistant coach Peter Mgangira also said they are not in the commercial city “to have fun”.
He said: “Yes, people might say we have nothing to fight for, but remember we have a crucial [Fisd Challenge Cup] final match against [Be Forward] Wanderers on Sunday and, apart from preparing for that match, another win against Bullets will boost our morale.
“Christmas is also around the corner and the players need the game bonuses to spoil their families.”
Such is the luxury for the People’s Team that they sealed the title on Saturday with two games to spare after beating Red Lions 0-3 at Balaka Stadium. A win today will see them hit 70 points.
Silver are third in the 16-team league with 56 points and any result will not change their position on the standings.
At Kasungu Stadium, rookies TN Stars host Wanderers in their last league match which they must win to finish in the top eight to book a place in the Airtel Top 8 next season.
The Kasungu-based side’s coach Meke Mwase said: “Our main goal was to avoid relegation and if we could finish in the top eight, it will be amazing.
“So, it is an important match for us and we would want to finish the season with a win as a festive season gift for our fans.”
However, second-placed Nomads’ team manager Stevie Madeira also said a win will boost their morale ahead of Sunday’s final.
“Anything short of a win will not be good as we head into the final match. Besides, it will also help us tune up for the final match,” he said.
