Lyna James has been crowned HTD Player of the Month for October, recognition of her commanding form and growing influence for FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women in the NBM Women’s Premiership.
The Maule Ladies played three fixtures during the month, winning twice before narrowly losing 1–0 to league leaders Silver Strikers Ladies, and James was ever-present in all of them.
The midfielder-cum-defender provided control, balance, and creativity at the heart of the team, becoming the engine in both phases of play.
Her standout display came in the 4–0 victory over Topik Academy, where her composure, intelligent distribution, and ability to dictate the tempo allowed the Maule Ladies to dominate the contest.
She was equally influential in the Blantyre derby against Mighty Wanderers Queens, breaking lines and orchestrating play with her trademark calmness under pressure. It was her quick transition pass that initiated the move leading to Zainab Kapanda winning the decisive free kick — converted by Ioulia Yiannakis — to seal a memorable 1–0 win.
Beyond her on-field contributions, James’ leadership and relentless work rate impressed the technical panel.
Her defensive discipline, pressing intensity, and ability to recover possession were key in stabilising the team as they fought for consistency during the first round.
James can also operate as a centre-half, and in some games, coach Maggie Chombo has deployed the 26-year-old in the backline when tactical adjustments demanded extra defensive solidity — a testament to her adaptability and football intelligence.
Even in the narrow defeat to Silver Strikers Ladies, James remained one of Bullets’ standout performers, helping the side remain competitive against the unbeaten leaders.
Her October performances also earned her a late call-up to the Malawi Women’s National Team, which went on to secure historic qualification for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Finals after defeating Angola 2-0 on aggregate last month — a milestone for the nation and a proud moment for the Maule family.
Bullets, currently on a mid-season break, closed the first round fourth on the log with 14 points from nine matches, and James’ influence has been central to that progress.
