Two goals from substitute Steven Bika and a composed strike from Jazil Bannet inspired FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under-19 to a 3-1 derby victory over Mighty Wanderers Youth at Chilomoni Stadium on Friday afternoon.
The result moved the Junior Maule into second place on 19 points, just one behind their rivals, while ending Wanderers’ unbeaten start to the Blantyre District Youth Football Committee League season.
First Half Action
The derby kicked off at a blistering tempo, with Wanderers creating the first openings.
Simplex Kapusa fired wide from the edge of the area before Khefasi Richard broke through but failed to hit the target.
The hosts dominated possession in the early exchanges, but Bullets stood strong, with Prince Jamali leading the backline.
On the half-hour mark, Brian Mwase picked out Bannet, whose whipped cross was flicked on by Charles Kasalanga for Hassan Madula, but the forward blazed over.
Wanderers threatened again from a corner, only for Jamali to clear. Moments later, Bullets earned a free kick which Jamali floated into the box, finding Bannet, but his header went wide.
The first half ended goalless with both teams struggling to break the deadlock.
Second Half Action
The game turned on its head after the restart.
Head coach Yamikani Fodya introduced Steven Bika and Ahmed Ayami, and the substitutes made an instant impact.
Within five minutes, Bullets struck twice. A short corner routine between Jamali and Bannet ended with Jamali’s curling cross, which Bika calmly finished for the opener.
Moments later, Bika turned provider, slipping a clever pass to Bannet, who doubled the lead with a composed strike past the goalkeeper.
Wanderers hit back in the 55th minute when Yusuf Amin headed home from Mike Kumwenda’s delivery to make it 2-1, briefly sparking hope of a comeback.
But Bullets refused to panic and instead grew stronger.
In the 70th minute, Madula beat his marker brilliantly before squaring for Bika, who netted his second of the game to restore Bullets’ two-goal cushion at 3-1.
The Junior Maule dominated the final stages, with Bika, Bannet and Mwase combining fluently to torment the Wanderers defence.
Bika thought he had completed his hat trick in stoppage time, only for the assistant referee’s flag to deny him.
Nevertheless, Bullets had already done enough to seal a famous derby victory.
What It Means
The win not only propels Bullets U19s into second place with 19 points but also ends rivals Wanderers Youth’s unbeaten run in the league.
With just one point separating the two sides at the top, the title race has tightened dramatically.
Coach’s Reaction
Head coach Yamikani Fodya praised his players’ character and discipline while stressing that development remains the bigger picture.
“I’m very happy with how the boys played, especially in the second half. They showed character, discipline and the courage to take the game to a strong opponent. Ending Wanderers’ unbeaten run is no small achievement, but credit must go to the players for sticking to our plan and executing it perfectly,” said the former Bullets skipper.
Fodya explained: “For us, this project is about development. Wins like this give the boys belief, but our focus is on shaping them for the demands of senior football. What pleased me most was the response after conceding. Instead of panicking, they stayed composed and pushed for more goals. That shows maturity and growth, which is exciting to see.”
