Rachael Kaphaizi
When Silver Strikers arrived in Karonga, they had a clear assignment in their hands: to hold on to their 2-nil lead. Having lost away in Lilongwe to a Silver Strikers side that is still trying to fly in the league, this contest was meant to be over.
When Silver scored after just two minutes into the first half, they may have thought the game was in safe hands. But their joy was short-lived as referee Cedric Mwachumu, without Video Assistant Referee (VAR), chalked the goal for what was deemed a ‘handball in the build-up.’
For the rest of the first half, Bankers played their trademark football, passing and stretching Karonga United at home. But they forgot the saying, when you are a stranger, you do not touch too many things.
Karonga, for large parts of the first half, seemed unsure how to build its attacks, or contain the Bankers. Twice, they gifted Bankers the ball in dangerous positions, but the team had Jamu to thank for making smart saves from Charles Chipala and then Tatenda M’balaka.
But when the second half came, Karonga United was a different team. They returned to the pitch possessed, wore their mojo back and delivered the unthinkable. And it was substitute Lennox Kiwambe who delivered a glimpse of the bad news in the 61st minute.
From then on, Karonga were not done.
Godfrey Sibale added a second goal in the 68th minute, cancelling Silver Strikers’ first-leg lead.
With momentum on their side, Kiwambe returned, striking again in the 83rd minute to complete the turnaround and seal a 3-0 home victory and a slot among the country’s top four teams in the Airtel competition.
Karonga United head coach Chris Crespo Chinkwita couldn’t help but praise his youthful side’s confidence and belief.
“Most of these boys are young players, and one of them was even making his debut in defence. We kept encouraging and motivating them throughout the week. They believed in themselves and stayed determined,” Chinkwita said.
On his part, Silver Strikers head coach Peter Mgangira, while accepting responsibility for the defeat, questioned the standard of officiating, suggesting it played a major role in his side’s elimination.
“Without the referee, the result (3-2) would not have turned out this way. I am not trying to make excuses. I am a person who takes responsibility, but honestly, I am very disappointed with the overall refereeing, said Mgangira.
The dramatic comeback was a perfect example of how dedication, resilience and hard work can change the outcome of a contest. From facing elimination after the first leg to celebrating a place in the semi-finals, Karonga United showed that persistence and belief can turn dreams into reality.
