FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Gilbert Chirwa was encouraged by his side’s performance despite a narrow defeat in the NBS Bank Charity Shield on Saturday.
The head coach highlighted the team’s strong first-half display, where Maule created several chances but lacked the finishing touch.
“We lost 1-0 in what was a very close and competitive match,” he said. “I believe we performed well, especially in the first half where we created several good chances, but unfortunately we didn’t take them.”
Chirwa pointed to a moment in the second half as the difference between the two sides.
“In the second half, we made one mistake, and that gave our opponents the opportunity to score the winning goal.”
Despite the outcome, he praised the effort and commitment shown by his players, underlining the spirit displayed throughout the contest.
“I’m proud of the spirit the boys showed. They worked hard, stayed committed, and played some good football going forward. This is a team that is still coming together, with many new faces, but the understanding and combinations are already improving.”
Chirwa also stressed that the defeat should not define the team’s ambitions for the season ahead.
“Today’s result does not define our season. In football, you don’t go in expecting defeat—you motivate each other to fight harder, and that’s exactly what the team did.”
He added that the difference ultimately came down to efficiency in front of goal.
“The only difference today is that our opponents converted their chance, and we didn’t.”
Looking ahead, Chirwa expressed confidence in the squad and the potential of the new additions as Maule continue to build.
“We have a strong squad, and with a bit of polishing, we will gel better and play as one unit. The new players are very promising and will continue to contribute even more.”
The People’s Team now turn their attention to the FDH Bank Premiership opener away to Civil Service United in Lilongwe next weekend.
