Nyasa Big Bullets collected a point from a possible six on their sojourn to the North where they played out a goalless draw against TNM Super League table anchors Mzuzu Warriors on Sunday at Mzuzu Stadium.
The People’s Team put up yet another disappointing show a day after loosing to Moyale Barracks FC 1-0 at the same venue.
Bullets are now level on 49 points with Silver Strikers who edged Blue Eagles 2-1 at Silver Stadium in Lilongwe.
But The People’s Team still top the 16-team league courtesy of a slight better goal difference. However, Silver have played a game more (25).
In a match that failed to stir the passions, Bullets dominated possession in the first half, but their efforts were thwarted by goalkeeper Pilirani Mapira, who was aided by a resolute and disciplined defence marshalled by Uchizi Vunga.
However, Warriors, who are coached by Bullets legend Gilbert Chirwa, came into the second half with renewed purpose, forcing Bullets into an expected rearguard action.
On two occasions, The People’s Team goalkeeper Richard Chimbamba kept away two close efforts from Vunga and Daniel Mhango as Warriors desperately searched for a goal in a bid to breathe a new lease of life in their survival campaign.
In a post-match interview, Chirwa said he was satisfied with the result.
“It was a tough game and I commend my players for playing to instructions. Bullets had their moments too and I think the result is fair,” he said.
Warriors have 17 points from 26 matches as they stare relegation in the face.
Bullets coach Callisto Pasuwa and his assistant Peter Mponda were in no mood to grant post-match interviews and rushed to the dressing room after the final whistle.
At Silver Stadium, Blessings Tembo scored the first goal for the Central Bankers before substitute Paul Master, who replaced Mecium Mhone, levelled the score.
Stain Dave grabbed the winner for Silver in the second half to worsen Eagles’ woes. They lie 12th with 27 points from 26 matches.
Silver assistant coach McDonald Yobe hailed the players for their fighting spirit.
“It was a tough game and we struggled for the win. Eagles came flat out for a win and we were equally desperate for victory as well,” he said.
On his part, Phiri said: “It was a good game. We let in silly goals. I think we are somehow lacking maturity, but all the same we are remaining with four games. We will try our best to fight for all the points on offer.”
In another game, Kamuzu Barracks (KB) beat Chitipa United 2-0 at Karonga Stadium. Ndaona Daisi and Zelliat Nkhoma were on target for KB who are now 11th with 34 points from 26 games.
