Tigers, Lions in defensive battle

Having gone seven games without conceding in what is their best TNM Super League start in years, Azam Tigers should prowl on Zomba Community Centre ground determined to preserve their pride against Red Lions today.

Goalkeeper Nenani Juwayo and the Bashir Maunde-marshalled defence are yet to know the bitter feeling of collecting the ball from the back of their net. Tigers have scored four.

But Tigers will have a good run on the park against the Lions who have banged 10 goals against two and are yet to lose at home this campaign. The only setback is that the hosts’ coach Mike Kumanga is without sniper Boniface Kaulesi who is with the Flames.

Reds are fourth on 14 points, three behind leaders Blue Eagles. The Kau Kau breathe on the soldiers’ necks at 13 points. Therefore, this game will, more than anything else, be a battle against conceding than scoring.

For the Eagles, a three-goal drubbing by hungry Civo United  last Sunday must have given coach Derklerk Msakakuona a reality check going into today’s Nankhaka battle against Epac FC.

Epac, too, are smarting from last week’s 1-0 loss to Tigers. Surely, the likes of Ishmael Thindwa might be looking to steady the Epac ship.

To do that, Epac should expect massive resistance from a Patrick Masanjala and Phillip Masiye strong midfield. In attack, Micium Mhone’s absence should be felt by the hosts.

In the event of another Eagles loss, second-placed Kamuzu Barracks (KB) can fancy their chances of rising to the summit when travelling to Civo tomorrow.

Seven goals scored in the last two league matches suggest that Thom Mkolongo’s men, helped by the experience of Noel Mkandawire and Lawrence Mwehiwa, are clicking into their deadly gear. Civo are 10th with seven points while KB have 15 points.

“We are a big team and we deserve respect,” KB coach Billy Phambala warned after edging Blantyre United at Kamuzu Stadium last Sunday. Civo better watch out.