The Blantyre mini-derby ended goalless as FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves and Mighty Wanderers Reserves concluded their 2025 ThumbsUp Southern Region Football League campaign with a 0–0 draw on Saturday afternoon at Kamuzu Stadium.
The result confirmed a third-place finish for the young Maule on 56 points. Chilobwe United top the table on 59 points, while second-placed Ekhaya Reserves sit on 57, with both sides still having a match remaining.
Heston Munthali’s boys dominated large spells of the contest and created numerous chances but were unable to break down a disciplined young Nomads side. The draw wraps up a competitive and spirited campaign for the youthful Bullets team.
First Half: Early Pressure, Solid Defending
The game started at a lively tempo, with the opposition showing early intent. Within minutes, the young Nomads earned a couple of corners, but young Bullets stood firm, with goalkeeper Julius Banda and his defence keeping danger at bay.
The young Maule soon settled and tested the Wanderers backline. Kondwani Mhone saw a shot blocked after a neat move involving Mwase, while Movic Banda’s header from a Mhone corner was cleared off the line.
Misheck Billiat was a constant threat down the flank, delivering dangerous crosses, while Kondwani Tebulo created openings from pockets of space. The young Bullets won a promising free kick, but Tebulo’s effort sailed over the bar.
Munthali’s boys suffered a setback when Billiat picked up an injury and was replaced by Zaneel Jussab. The first half ended 0–0, with both sides showing solid defensive organisation.
Second Half: Bullets Press, Young Nomads Hold Firm
The young Maule came out after the break with renewed purpose. Mwase released Mhone, but his low cross was dealt with by the Wanderers goalkeeper. The opposition responded with corners but failed to convert.
On 55 minutes, Munthali introduced Kondwani Chaula and Francis Malikebu, adding fresh energy to the young Bullets attack. Tebulo combined with Malikebu from a short corner, but his follow-up went over the bar, while Mwase later tested the keeper with a long-range strike.
Bullets Reserves piled on sustained pressure. Chaula narrowly missed the far post after a well-worked move, Jussab forced an excellent save from the opposition goalkeeper, and Kumbuyo blazed over from a gilt-edged chance in the dying moments.
Despite relentless pressure from Munthali’s boys, the young Nomads held firm as the match ended 0–0.
Full Time: Third Place Secured
The draw confirmed Bullets Reserves’ third-place finish in the 2025 SRFA ThumbsUp League with 56 points. Chilobwe United currently top the table with 59 points and Ekhaya Reserves sit second on 57, with both sides yet to play their final matches of the season. Wanderers Reserves also finished on 56 points, but the young Maule edged them out for third thanks to a superior goal difference, having scored 49 goals compared to the Nomads’ 27.
Post-Match Reaction – Heston Munthali
“The boys gave a good performance, especially in the second half. In the first half we were second best, but after the break we spoke to the players, made a few adjustments and created many chances. Unfortunately, we failed to utilize those opportunities,” said Munthali.
“That is something we will work on going forward. The players gave everything today and showed great effort because they wanted to win the game, but in the end we had to settle for a draw.
“With this result, we have now concluded our season. Today we aimed for a win, but we take the draw and move forward. When we return next season, we will build from this foundation.”
