Silver Strikers opened a seven-point gap at the summit of the TNM Super League following a goal-less stalemate against arch-rivals Civil Service United at Silver Stadium Sunday.
The Central Bankers, who are hoping to end 11-year wait for the TNM Super League title, could have opened a nine-point gap if they had claimed maximum points against Civil after second-placed Mighty Mukuru Wanderers lost 2-1 to FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on Saturday.
This is the second consecutive stalemate for Silver in the league after a 2-2 draw against Creck Sporting Club.
This is the first time Silver have failed to score a goal in 23 matches in the league this season.
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The Central Bankers are still the only unbeaten team in the elite league and have only dropped points against two teams at home.
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With seven matches to go, Silver have 51 points whereas Wanderers have 44 points.
However, defending champions Bullets are third with 40 points from 23 matches, 11 points behind Silver.
The title race is too early to call at this stage as the three title contenders have remained with tough matches.
At Silver Stadium, Civil dominated the match and created some chances but lacked firepower upfront.
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Civil defender Damiano Kunje got the best chance of the match in the first half but goalkeeper George Chikooka made a timely save.
On the other hand, Silver also missed some chances.
Silver Coach Peter Mponda said one point was important in the title race.
“We managed to get a draw and we are happy with it. We are not after the performance but we are ok. We have added a point. We are the only unbeaten team in the league this season,” Mponda said.
On his part, Civil Assistant Coach Wilson Chidati said the draw was a true reflection of the match.
“We had a lot of chances but all in all a point is better for us. We are confident of finishing in the top eight this season,” Chidati said.
Elsewhere, Karonga United stunned Creck Sporting Club at home following a 1-0 victory at Aubrey Dimba Stadium in Mchinji.
Blessings Mwalilino scored the only goal of the match. In another match, Mafco came from behind to claim a 2-1 victory over Baka City at Chitowe Stadium.
Dickson Mwangonde scored for Baka but goals from Bernard Chimaimba and Peter Kasonga were enough to secure maximum points for the Salima-based soldiers.
At Balaka Stadium, Bangwe All Stars and Kamuzu Barracks shared the spoils following a1-1 stalemate.
Olson Kanjira scored for the KB soldiers but Innocent Msowoya levelled the scores from the penalty spot.
