Frank Moja Dzuwa

ThumbsUp Premier League finally got off to an intense start at Mulanje Park Stadium, with Bullets Reserves edging out FOMO Reserve 1-0 in the opening match.

Kondwani Tebulo scored the decisive goal in the 81st minute, after receiving a good pass inside the penalty area.

After the match, Bullets Reserves coach Heston Munthali expressed his satisfaction with the win but noted that his team still has work to do in terms of cohesion and adapting to their desired playing style.

“We have won 1-0, but it wasn’t easy. The problem I saw was maybe the jellying; we have a lot of new players who are yet to adapt to our philosophy,” said Munthali.

FOMO Reserve coach Raffick Musah, on the other hand, saw the match as a valuable learning experience for his team.

Despite the loss, Musah believes his players will improve as the league progresses.

“We learned a lot playing against a top team like Bullets Reserves. We’re confident we will do better moving forward,” said Musah.

Musah praised his team’s performance, saying they gave it their all and only fell short due to the opponent’s superior skill and experience.

“We are proud of our players for the effort they put in. We will regroup, work on our weaknesses, and come back stronger,” he added.

Marketing manager at Lab Processors Limited, the company sponsoring the league, Andrew Luke, expressed his delight at the league’s kickoff.

“The ThumbsUp Premier League is a significant platform for local talent to shine. We are committed to supporting the league and ensuring its success,” he said.

Mischeck Biliat for Bullets Reserve was awarded the man of the match for his outstanding performance.