• BT Derby produces another draw

• 12 draws in 15 matches 

Wa Ganyu

The story has not changed. Even with a mix of old and new players, the story is the same. A draw was the outcome in the 75th Super League Blantyre derby. This brings the derby’s tally of draws to 12 from  15 matches played since June 2017.

Mighty Mukuru Wanderers head coach Nsanzurwimo Ramadhan welcomed back his captain Lawrence Chaziya and Blessings Singini who were out of action due to injuries. The Burundian gaffer awarded Isaac Kaliati his first start of the season.

On the other hand, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets’ coach Callisto Pasuwa opted for Chrispin Mapemba over captain Precious Sambani to take charge of the left back. Precious Phiri replaced Gomezgani Chirwa at the right back as Chirwa played as a centre back partnering Clyde Senaji. Colin Mujuru was at the stands for an injury.

As usual the game was characterised by a pre-hype and a larger crowd flocked to Kamuzu Stadium to witness one of the most historic fixtures in Malawi football.

At exactly 2.30PM Mayamiko Kanjere blew his whistle to start the match, with the nomads  settling and enjoying a big share of possession, thanks to the dazzling performance of their new signing, Blessings Singini who handled Llyod Aaron so well.

It was at 20 minutes when Isaac Kaliati fired the Nomads ahead when he slotted the ball to the far post after a beautiful flip from Gaddie Chirwa. After the goal, it was Wanderers all over with their hitman Christopher Kumwembe missing a couple of clear-cut chances.

Wanderers took their slender lead to recess. In the second half Pasuwa made a double change, resting Aaron and Lanjesi Nkhoma for Babatunde Adepoju and Ronald Chitiyo.

It took only 3 minutes for Bullets to level the scores through Patrick Mwaungulu who slotted home a well -received pass from Adepoju.

After the equaliser, it was a 50-50 affair as both sides laboured to snatch the lead and possible victory that never came.

Speaking after the match, Pasuwa conceded of being second on the ball in the first half, saying this cost them a lot but applauded his charges for coming back into the game. 

Concurring with Pasuwa was Wanderers assistant coach Meck Mwase saying it was a game of two halves as they failed to utilise their chances but said a point from a derby was not bad. 

Gaddie Chirwa who had two shots on target and created four scoring opportunities was voted man of the match. 

BULLETS FIRST XI Nixon Nyasulu, Gomezgani Chirwa(C), Cylde Senaji, Patrick Mwaungulu, Ephraim Kondowe, Yankho Singo, Lanjesi Nkhoma, Precious Phiri, Lloyd Aaron, Chrispin Mapemba

WANDERERS FIRST XI Richard Chipuwa, Lawrence Chaziya(C), Kung’unde, Blessings Singini, Stanley Sanudi, Timothy Silwimba, Isaac Kaliati, Felix Zulu, Gaddie Chirwa, Christopher Kumwembe