By Twimepoki Mangani
Lilongwe, August 5, Mana: FCB Nyasa Big Bullets survived a resilient Extreme FC side to progress to the semi-finals of the FDH Bank Cup by a 4-2 with through penalties 4-2.
The match played at Civo Stadium was well patronized with larger parts of the crowd dawning red regalia in support of the people’s team.
There were no substantial chances in the first 20 minutes as Bullets looked to grow into the game stringing up passes while Extreme FC observed Bullets build up and anticipated counter attacking opportunities.
The right was Bullets active flank as Patrick Mwaungulu and Gomezgani Chirwa took turns to create through it. Mwaungulu created the first chance with cross that was headed wide by Clyde Senaji.
Extreme FC produced a shocker in the 21st minute when goal keeper Blessings Juma’s free kick from his own half eluded the Bullets defense to Gregory Mwase who slot home the opener.
Bullet’s remained patient. However, Extreme grew more confident enjoying passes and capitalising on their opponent’s mistakes to the joy of a minority who were rooting for them.
Immediate changes were made for Bullets to begin the second half, introducing Mcfallen Mgwira and Lanjesi Nkhoma for Chawanangwa Gumbo and Righteous Banda.
The half proceeded at a slow pace as play was constantly stopped for Extreme FC players to get medical aid.
Extreme FC had chances to kill off the game but Bullets looked hungrier in search for an equalizer.
Juma was at the Centre stage, dishing out a stellar performance by racking up save after save denying Bullets.
Lanjesi Nkhoma missed a golden opportunity after latching on to the ball but couldn’t beat Juma.
Fate wasn’t on Extremes’ side as Bullets eventually saved their FDH Cup hope after late substitute Ephraim Kondowe headed home Mgwira’s cross in the 92nd minute for the 1-1 equalizer.
During the penalty shot out, Extreme scored their first two kicks, Bullets scored their first three penalties with Keeper Richard Chimbamba saving Thokozani Mwangata’s third kick.
Bullet’s Frank Willard and Extreme’s Chikondi Chasowa missed their kicks before Nickson Nyasulu won it all for Bullets.
In a post-match interview Kalitso Pasuwa said they had anticipated a tough outing and noted the need to careful manage his squad ahead of the semi-finals.
“Well done to the opponents besides their position in the league they played well because that’s how cup games are,” said Pasuwa.
Coach for Extreme FC, Elvis Kafoteka attributed the loss to fatigue as well as elements of complacency however he also noted that the team will bounce back in the league.
