Silver fans angered by loss to Eagles

Silver Strikers 1-0 loss to Blue Eagles on Saturday in a Standard Bank Cup launch game triggered violent protests from some of the Bankers’ fans who threw missiles at the team’s bench.

It had to take Football Association of Malawi (FAM) president Walter Nyamilandu to intervene and reason with the supporters.

This was Silver’s third successive loss in all competitions. They also lost to minnows Complex Madrid and Blantyre United by 2-1 margins the previous weekend.

While Silver are having a bad patch, Blue Eagles won their third successive silverware after the Fellowship Association of Malawi (Fama) Bonanza and the Standard Bank Cup which they are defending.

John ‘CJ’ Banda’s goal in the 67th minute of the match was enough to win Eagles K600 000.

“I cannot believe what is happening, we never were in contention today [Monday]. It’s bad considering that we started the season well and now we have lost a third successive match,” said a disappointed Silver coach Thom Mkorongo.

Eagles were never in doubt about the victory as they controlled the match and had nine clear chances at goal. They controlled the midfield, the offence and were composed at the back.

“The future looks rosy and bright for us. Though I have to say this is not a coincidence as we have invested a lot in terms of rebuilding the team and also incentives for the players,” said a visibly excited Eagles chairperson Elijah Kachikuwo.

Banda, who scored his fifth goal in five matches including two for the national football team, attributed his success to God and team mates.

“I’m overwhelmed that once again I have managed to score a crucial goal that has won us the match. It is God who has blessed me. I thank my team mates for the support I get from them. I am committed to helping my team defend the Standard Bank Cup,” said Banda.