FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves face a pivotal test on Saturday afternoon as they travel to Moneymen Ground for a high-stakes ThumbsUp League encounter against league leaders Chilobwe United.
The young Maule sit fourth on the table with 41 points from 23 matches, seven behind Chilobwe, and know that a victory would significantly tighten the title race. Coming from back-to-back draws, this clash presents a crucial opportunity to regain momentum at a decisive stage of the season.
Form Guide
Bullets Reserves head into the weekend after a mixed set of results. A commanding 5-0 win over Liberty FC was followed by 1-1 draws against Nyambadwe United and Mwanza Stars. The team then suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Nsanje United before being held to a 0-0 stalemate by Thondwe FC at Kamuzu Stadium.
Despite challenges in turning performances into victories, the side has shown strong levels of intensity and organisation — and a positive result on Saturday could reignite their push for the top positions.
Chilobwe United, meanwhile, enter the encounter in strong form, having secured a 3-0 win over Mwanza Stars, a 4-0 win against Ntopwa, and a 2-1 victory over Nyambadwe United. A 1-1 draw with Ekhaya Reserve briefly halted their run, but they responded with a 2-0 triumph over The Boyz to maintain their position at the summit.
Head-to-Head
The first-round meeting between the two sides ended 1-0 in favour of Chilobwe United at Kamuzu Stadium.
Bullets dominated much of that encounter but were undone by a single moment — a result they aim to overturn as they look to stay firmly in the title race.
Coach’s Thoughts
Head coach Heston Munthali believes his side has made significant improvements since the first-round encounter and is confident ahead of the trip.
“We are playing Chilobwe, a team that is leading in the standings. I remember we lost 1-0 in the first round but we dominated that game in many areas — we just lacked the killer punch. This time we have worked on the problems we had, such as failing to score and conceding easy goals.”
“Last weekend’s match ended goalless, which shows our defending was good, but we struggled in attack. We have worked hard on creating chances and scoring goals, and we have encouraged the boys not to look down on themselves.”
“Chilobwe have a lot of experienced players. They will come hard at us, but as Bullets Reserve we are ready, and we believe the boys will win there. We know this is a game we need to win at all costs. The boys understand its importance, and although it won’t be easy playing on their backyard, we are prepared.”
Team News
Bullets Reserves head into Saturday’s showdown with no major injury concerns, giving the technical panel a full group to work with. The squad has shown strong intensity in training this week, responding well to the push for faster transitions and sharper finishing after last weekend’s goalless draw.
Captain Oscar Petro is expected to play a key leadership role as the team looks to lift its midfield rhythm, while vice-captain Mussah Bwanali continues to anchor the defensive line with composure and communication.
Several players have been influential in recent matches, and their contributions will again be crucial in a fixture of this magnitude. With healthy competition across the pitch and confidence still high, the young Maule head into the tie well-prepared and determined.
Match Details
Fixture: Chilobwe United vs FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Reserves
Competition: 2025 SRFA ThumbsUp League
Date: Saturday
Venue: Moneymen Ground
Kick-off: 14:30 CAT
Follow live updates, highlights, and full post-match coverage across all FCB Nyasa Big Bullets digital platforms as the young Maule look to cut the gap and keep their title challenge alive.
