TNM Super League leaders Blue Eagles and champions Nyasa Big Bullets shared spoils after a 1-1 stalemate at Nakhaka Ground in Lilongwe Saturday.
But Mighty Wanderers and Silver Strikers recovered in time to register victories in their respective assignments Saturday.
Wanderers claimed a 1-0 victory over Moyale Barracks at Mzuzu Stadium whereas Silver defeated Karonga United 2-0 at Karonga Ground.
At Nakhaka, it was a high-tempo match but both Eagles and Bullets dropped points for the first time in the top-flight league this season.
John Malidadi Junior gave the hosts the lead when he headed in a Gaddie Chirwa pass in the 31st minute.
However, the lead was short-lived as Bullets equalised four minutes later through Babatunde Adepoju, who converted a penalty, after Jacob Robert was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box.
The Nigerian striker stepped up and sent Eagles goalkeeper Brighton Munthali the wrong way.
It was the first time that Munthali had conceded a goal this season in four matches.
Eagles’ captain Schumacher Kuwali had an opportunity to restore his team’s lead but he blasted his shot over the bar.
The two teams went for recess tied at 1-1.
After the break, Eagles started on high but wasted two good opportunities through Chirwa.
Both teams made some changes in search of the winner but it never came.
In post-match interview, Eagles assistant coach Christopher Sibale was impressed with the performance of his players.
“Honestly, the referee was not in control of the game. I think some of his decisions frustrated our boys,” Sibale said.
On his part, Bullets coach Kalisto Pasuwa admitted it was tough match.
“There was a time when there were so many tackles and my boys looked down, so we needed mental strength,” Pasuwa said.
Eagles maintained their top spot with 10 points from four matches whereas Bullets climbed to second position with seven points from three matches.
The People’s Team will face Dedza Dynamos at Balaka Stadium Wednesday.
At Mzuzu Stadium, veteran striker Chiukepo Msowoya made the difference after he scored the lone goal of the match to hand Wanderers the win against the Lions of Kaning’ina.
Elsewhere, Chawanangwa Kaonga and Nickson Mwase were on target for Silver in a 2-0 win over Karonga.
Rookies Rumphi United earned their first win in TNM Super League after thrashing Mighty Tigers 3-0 at Rumphi Stadium.
Trouble Kajani grabbed a brace with the other goal coming from Gerald Mwanza.
At Mpira Stadium, Sable Farming also registered their first win after beating Red Lions 2-0 with goals from Emmanuel Lino and Christopher Gototo.
Super League action continues this afternoon with Civil Service United hosting Mafco at Civo Stadium whereas TN Stars will entertain Kamuzu Barracks at Kasungu Stadium.
Ekwendeni Hammers will take on Tigers at Mzuzu Stadium.