A late Precious Chamangwana strike saw FCB Nyasa Big Bullets U19s claim all three points with a 1-0 victory over Mighty Wanderers Youth in the FCB Katswiri Under-20 League at Chilomoni Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
What happened
The highly anticipated Blantyre mini-derby got off to a blistering start, with both sides racing out of the blocks in search of an early advantage.
The young Nomads won a corner kick in the 7th minute, and the ensuing shot rattled the post, sending shockwaves through the Bullets defence.
As the game wore on the hosts began to assert their dominance, controlling the tempo and pinning our youngsters back. In the 16th minute, our youth managed to get their first shot on target through Kelvin Chimodzi.
Wanderers’ pressure continued to build and they had a golden opportunity in the 18th minute. Aubrey Manyengo’s effort, however, was expertly parried away by Daniel Matumula, who was aided by some lacklustre communication among his defenders.
The Nomads’ corner kicks were proving to be difficult for our youngsters and Vincent Kampira came close to breaking the deadlock in the 26th minute, but his header went off target.
As the half drew to a close, the home side was awarded a free kick outside the box, but Mike Kumwenda’s shot sailed wide, leaving the scores level at halftime, 0-0
Bullets introduced Issah Felix and Precious Kumbanga for Owen Themu and Brian Mwase at the start of the second half, and this substitution proved pivotal as The People’s Team began to gain momentum, winning a corner kick in the 43rd minute and launching a series of counter-attacks.
In the 79th minute, our Under-19s were awarded a free kick on the edge of the box after Felix was brought down by Lameck George. Chamangwana stepped up to take the ball into the net, sending the Bullets bench into raptures.
The goal ignited a fire within our lads, who pushed hard for a second but ultimately settled for a hard-fought 1-0 win.
What it means
With Saturday’s result over their Blantyre city young rivals, Bullets have won eight out of the nine games played. They are leading FCB Katswiri Under-20 League with 25 points.
Coach Fodya’s post-match reaction
“It was a tough game for us but we showed incredible character to turn the game around to secure the three points. Our substitution made a huge impact and Chamangwana’s free kick was pure magic. This win will motivate the boys for Monday’s game against Manchester Motors at PTS ground.”
Next
Bullets youth will turn in action on Monday afternoon in the fixture against Manchester Motors at the Police Training School Ground.
