By Llywellenie Mpasa:
Mighty Wanderers have surged to the summit of the TNM Super League table following a convincing 2-0 win over Premier Bet Dedza Dynamos at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre Sunday.
The Nomads, who came into the match sitting second with 19 points from seven matches, have taken their tally to 22 points, leapfrogging arch-rivals FCB Nyasa Big Bullets who have 21 points.
Both Wanderers and Bullets have played eight matches each.
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The result not only maintained Wanderers’ unbeaten run this season but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league contenders about their intent to challenge for the title.
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Forward Promise Kamwendo returned to haunt his former side by opening the scoring in the 7th minute with a well-placed header from a pinpoint cross delivered by the in-form Wisdom Mpinganjira.
The goal, which was met with deafening cheers from the home fans, was followed by a respectful gesture from Kamwendo, who chose not to celebrate against his former club.
Despite the early lead, Dedza Dynamos remained competitive in the first half and created a few threatening moments.
Wanderers also came close to doubling their lead in the 31st minute when they won a free-kick just outside the box after Kamwendo was fouled, but Isaac Kaliati’s effort was comfortably collected by Dedza goalkeeper Donnes Mwakasinga
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The first half ended 1-0 in favour of the Nomads, with Dedza players holding a tactical discussion on the pitch while Wanderers went straight to the dressing room.
The second half resumed with Dedza pressing harder, trying to find an equaliser.
However, their aggressive approach resulted in several fouls near the penalty area, and they were punished in the 55th minute when Kaliati curled in a beautiful free-kick after Gaddie Chirwa was fouled on the edge of the 18-yard box.
From then on, Wanderers maintained control of the match, managing possession well and frustrating Dedza’s efforts to mount a comeback.
After the match, Wanderers Coach Bob Mpinganjira was full of praise for his players.
“Our boys played as a unit and that is what gave us the edge today. We are still unbeaten but this is not the time to boast. We must stay focused and continue working hard. The season is long and more matches are coming,” Mpinganjira said.
On the other hand, Dedza Coach Alex Ngwira attributed the loss to his players being overwhelmed by the occasion.
“My players were a bit too respectful to the Nomads and the atmosphere here. But I am still encouraged. This is a process. I am new at the club, and the team will eventually jell and find its rhythm,” Ngwira said.
In another match, debutants Ekhaya stayed third on the log table after beating Mzuzu City Hammers 3-1, with Andrew Lameck, Wongani Kaponya and Clever Chikwita scoring for the Cowboys.
Ekhaya have 19 points from nine matches.
