FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Under 19s secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Griffin Young Stars in the FCB Katswiri Under 20 League at Mpira Stadium on Sunday.
Kelvin Chimodzi’s 9th-minute strike proved decisive, as our youngsters withstood intense pressure from the visitors to claim all three points.
What happened
The game burst into life from the outset, with both teams seeking to establish dominance.
Bullets won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area in the 7th minute, but Ramos Hassan expertly parried away Vincent Kampira’s effort.
Two minutes later, Chimodzi capitalised on a defensive mix-up by the visitors, slotting home with precision to give Bullets the lead.
Griffin responded with possession football, but their final ball lacked the cutting edge required to unlock the young Maule’s defence.
The opening half witnessed several scoring opportunities, including Kampira’s clever corner routine and Kuchanga’s inviting cross, which begged for a finishing touch.
Griffin’s captain, Saidi Yassin, rattled the post with a powerful header after connecting Mark Chipala’s free-kick, but Bullets held firm to hold on to their narrow lead going for the break.
After the interval, the visitors emerged with renewed vigour, testing the home team’s goalkeeper, James Wisiki.
Yamikani Fodya responded with substitutions, introducing Blessings Lungu, Owen Themu and Geoffrey Kamwendo to inject fresh legs.
As the clock ticked, the opposition launched a series of attacks, but our U19s’ defence stood resolute.
In the closing minutes, Wisiki thwarted Sabulani’s golden opportunity, and the visitors’ free kick clipped the post, bringing relief to the Bullets faithful.
Ultimately, our boys took home all three points with a 1-0 margin.
What it means
With this hard-fought win, Fodya’s boys registered their second win in the second round of the league after starting badly by losing back-to-back on their previous outings.
Fodya’s post-match reaction
“It was a tough match, but we took our chance and defended resolutely. Griffin Stars had their opportunities, but our goalkeeper, James Wisiki, made crucial saves. We’re pleased with the three points and look forward to the next challenge.”
Looking forward
The young Bullets will return to action next weekend, aiming for another win.
