FCB Nyasa Big Bullets first assistant coach Gilbert Chirwa says Sunday’s dramatic 4-3 victory over Civil Service United at Kamuzu Stadium came as no surprise, insisting that such intense battles are exactly what Bullets must be ready for in the final stages of the TNM Super League campaign.
With pressure mounting in the title race, this was a test of character — and Chirwa believed his players rose to the occasion.
The People’s Team twice came from behind in the first half—first through Peter Banda and later through Chikumbutso Salima—before turning the contest with a forceful attacking display. Salima completed his hat-trick after the restart to send Bullets 4-2 up, though the visitors pulled one back to set up a tense finish.
Reflecting on a match filled with momentum swings, Chirwa praised his squad’s resolve and highlighted the mental strength required to secure such victories as the title race intensifies.
On the intensity of the match
“Yes, we fought for these points and I don’t think there will be easy games in the final round of the league. Every game will be difficult for us, but we need mental toughness to overcome any side,” Chirwa said.
“Civil Service United is a tough team — you saw how they made us sweat for these points. But we were fighting for points, and that’s exactly what we have done today.”
On the early substitution that sparked debate
Head coach Peter Mponda made an early tactical switch, bringing in Babatunde Adepoju for captain Frank Willard, a decision that sparked debate among some sections of the supporters.
Chirwa backed the call and urged fans to maintain trust in the technical panel.
“The team is in the hands of the head coach. He is the one who decides to make changes because he prepares the team,” he explained.
“Our supporters are here to cheer us up, and they should continue supporting us. Some decisions belong strictly to the technical panel, and supporters should trust the process.”
On the importance of the victory in the title race
“It means a lot to us because we didn’t do well in the previous three games and we needed to win,” he said.
“This win will instill confidence in the players. I think the confidence is back. It’s a big morale booster for the boys.”
On finally converting chances after three goalless matches
“Converting chances into goals was the main difference this afternoon,” Chirwa highlighted.
“We managed to score from the majority of the chances we created. The performance wasn’t even bad — our opponents were equally good.”
On conceding three goals
Despite the victory, Bullets have now conceded seven goals in their last four matches across all competitions.
“While the three goals conceded raise concerns, there is no need for alarm,” Chirwa assured.
“We’ll sit down, do a postmortem, and see where we are failing defensively. It will come out good.”
Salima Shines Bright
Chikumbutso Salima delivered one of the standout individual performances of the season, scoring his first Bullets hat-trick and earning the Player of the Match award as well as the matchball. His brilliance proved decisive as Maule moved to 53 points from 23 games, reclaiming top spot — one point ahead of Mighty Wanderers, who dropped points away to Silver Strikers on Saturday.
What’s Next
The People’s Team will now shift attention to another crucial assignment, with a midweek trip to Lilongwe to face Kamuzu Barracks on Thursday in the TNM Super League.
