FCB Nyasa Big Bullets ended their four-game winless run against archrivals Mighty Wanderers with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in Sunday’s FDH Bank Premiership Blantyre derby at Bingu National Stadium.

Having gone four consecutive matches without defeating Wanderers, Bullets arrived in Lilongwe under pressure but delivered a composed, resilient performance when it mattered most. A first-half penalty from captain Blessings Mpokera and a second-half Maxwell Phodo header were enough to seal a crucial derby win, despite a timely consolation for the Nomads through a penalty scored by Promise Kamwendo.

Bullets showed they had come for redemption right from the opening whistle. Five minutes in, Ephraim Kondowe won a penalty after being brought down in the box, allowing Mpokera to calmly convert and quiet Wanderers supporters.

The early goal boosted Gilbert Chirwa’s side, who appeared sharper and more aggressive in transition. Clever Kalambo and Phodo consistently stretched Wanderers’ defence, while Kondowe was a constant threat in attack.

A tactical switch by the Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjila saw Masiya Manda subbed for Promise Kamwendo, as the Nomads reverted to the 3-5-2 that has seen them get the better of Bullets in the last four games.

And that change nearly paid dividends as the Nomads regained control of the engine room, throwing everything at Bullets.

Though Wanderers gradually grew into the match through Stanley Sanudi, Gad Chirwa and Isaac Kaliati, Bullets remained disciplined at the back. Mpokera made a crucial clearance to deny Sama Thierry Tanjong, while goalkeeper Innocent Nyasulu managed repeated pressure with good composure. Even when Bullets seemed poised to give in, Wanderers were denied by the post three times.

At the final whistle, the entire Bullets bench was on the pitch, jubilant. The victory meant more than just three points; it was a statement. After a frustrating run against the Nomads, Maule finally regained derby bragging rights.

Lineups

Wanderers: Chancy Mtete, Masiya Manda, Stanley Sanudi, Daniel Kudonto, Emmanuel Nyirenda, Blessings Singini, Isaac Kaliati, Alex Kambirinya, Gaddie Chirwa, Lameck Mithi, Thierry Tangong Sama

Big Bullets: Innocent Nyasulu, Emmanuel Kaunga, Blessings Mpokera, Andrew Jovinala, Chawanangwa Gumbo, Aaron Chilipa, Paul Master, Clever Kalambo, Yankho Singo, Maxwell Gasten, Ephraim Kondowe