By Lusekero Mhango:
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on Wednesday moved to the top of the TNM Super League table after defeating Songwe Border United 3-1 at Karonga Stadium.
The result pushed Bullets above rivals Mighty Wanderers, who were held to a goalless draw by Creck Sporting Club at Balaka Stadium, surrendering first place to their Blantyre neighbours.
“It was a tough game, but the players worked hard to win this match,” said Bullets assistant coach Gilbert Chirwa.
Songwe, who are bottom of the table, shocked the visitors when Kelvin Nyondo opened the scoring in the 40th minute. He converted from close range after goalkeeper Innocent Nyasulu had initially saved his penalty, awarded following a handball decision by referee Newton Nyirenda.
The lead, however, lasted only four minutes as Babatunde Adepoju equalised with a powerful header from Chikumbutso Salima’s precise cross. Adepoju struck again three minutes after the restart, capitalising on a defensive mix-up to slot past Songwe goalkeeper Abraham Mwandenga.
Isaac Salima sealed the victory for the defending champions in the 61st minute, finishing off a flowing team move after a clever cutback from Adepoju, who ended the game with two goals and an assist.
Bullets dominated much of the second half, with their midfield controlling possession and creating several chances, though Songwe fought hard to stay in the contest.
After the match, Chirwa praised his team’s resilience, saying the players showed commitment and determination to secure maximum points in a difficult away fixture.
Songwe coach Christopher Nyambose, despite the loss, expressed satisfaction with his team’s progress, noting that they are steadily improving with each game.
“The team is showing signs of improvement and performances are indicating that we are maturing to compete in any game now,” said Nyambose.
The win saw Bullets climb to 40 points from 17 games, one point clear at the summit of the log. Wanderers, now second, sit on 39 points from the same number of matches.
For Songwe, the defeat means they remain rooted at the bottom with just two points from 17 games, facing an uphill battle to avoid relegation. Despite the setback, their spirited performance against the champions suggested potential for growth.
With 13 games left to play in the season, the title race remains tight, with Bullets and Wanderers expected to push each other to the limit in the coming weeks.
