FCB Nyasa Big Bullets playmaker Peter Banda was thrilled with his return to the game after almost 18 months on the sidelines due to a shoulder injury.
After recovering following his surgery in Kenya, Banda featured for Bullets when the People’s Team defeated Karonga United 2-1 in an Airtel Top 8 semifinal match at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.
Banda impressed after assisting Chikumbutso Salima to put Bullets ahead in the 26th minute.
However, Banda was withdrawn in the 35th minute after sustaining an eye injury following a collision.
Banda downplayed the injury when he spoke with the Bullets website.
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“It was not something of a major concern. It was just an elbow to the eye, which made it hard to see clearly for a moment. But I am okay now and ready to give even more effort. Everyone has been waiting for my return, so I know I need to fight for my place and help the team succeed this season,” he was quoted as saying.
The 24-year-old attacker said he was encouraged with his performance on his return.
“I am so happy that I am back. It is every professional player’s dream to be playing regularly, and after 18 months on the sidelines, I am excited to be part of the team again. It is really encouraging that I was able to make an impact right away and provide an assist on my return,” Banda said.
Bullets Coach Peter Mponda also downplayed the injury and Banda’s involvement in the match.
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“Firstly, in life you need to take risks. But I do not think that it was a risk. We have been training with Peter and we know where he is coming from and where he is now. We felt that he was ready and the way he played he showed us that he is ready now.
“If we say it was too early for him to come, I do not think so because it is a different injury and not the same one. He was elbowed on the eye and that is why he went out. In terms of how he played, he really gave us what we wanted and expected,” Mponda said.
