By Innocent Manda
Blue Eagles Football Club secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Karonga United in the TNM Super League week 19 fixture played at Nankhaka Stadium in Lilongwe on Sunday.
The decisive goal came in the 71st minute when 21-year-old forward, Pius Saka, calmly slotted home after a neat assist from teammate Lanken, sending the Nankhaka faithful into celebrations.
Speaking after the match, Blue Eagles Head Coach Derklek Msakakuona commended his charges for their resilience and tactical discipline, noting that his side successfully adapted to the physical style of their opponents.
“Yes, I made a number of changes to strengthen the attacking force. Although we missed several chances, I am glad my boys capitalized on one opportunity to secure the win,” said Msakakuona.
The coach urged players to remain focused on upcoming fixtures, stressing that the victory against Karonga United was valuable but the bigger challenge lies in maintaining consistency as the season progresses.“We cannot relax after this win because the league is tough. Every game is a new battle and we must keep working hard to achieve our set targets this season,” Msakakuona added.
Karonga United Coach, Oscar Tindic Kaunda, admitted defeat but expressed concern over the high physical demands of the encounter, noting that his players found it difficult to match the strength of the opposition.
“They showed they were coming from election training since most are soldiers and police officers, the game was too physical but all in all, we must go back to our drawing board,” said Kaunda.
Pius Saka, the lone goal scorer, was voted Player of the Match, while Robert Luhanga received the Superior Agri Consult Man of the Match award.
In other results of week 19, Civil Service United stunned Mzuzu City Hammers 2-1, Mighty Wanderers edged Dedza Dynamos 1-0, and FCB Nyasa Big Bullets triumphed 2-1 over Silver Strikers in a heated encounter.
As it stands, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets continue to top the log table with 46 points from 19 matches, followed by Mighty Wanderers with 42 points and Silver Strikers in third place with 36 points.
