By Rahim Abdul
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets finally brought an end to their painful run against rivals Mighty Wanderers after securing a dramatic 2-1 victory in a fiercely contested Blantyre derby played in Lilongwe on Sunday in Lilongwe.
The win came at a crucial moment for the People’s Team, who had suffered four straight defeats against Wanderers in recent meetings, including elimination from the FDH Bank Cup and a disappointing Charity Shield loss that had left supporters questioning the team’s direction.
Bullets responded with a spirited and tactically disciplined display that reminded many supporters of the club’s traditional fighting spirit. From the opening whistle, Bullets showed hunger, aggression and composure in all departments of the pitch.
Bullets dominated key battles in midfield through the hardworking partnership of Paul MasterChawanagwa Gumbo and Yankho Singo, who successfully disrupted Wanderers’ rhythm and denied players like Daniel Kudonto Blessings Singini and Isaac Kaliati enough space to influence the game.
Wanderers appeared uncomfortable in midfield for large periods of the encounter, with Lameck Mithi struggling to provide attacking balance in the highly physical contest. The Nomads often looked exposed during transitions as Bullets attacked with pace and purpose.
The breakthrough arrived in the 4th minute after Aaron Chilipa burst into space down the flank before delivering a dangerous ball into the penalty area. Ephraim Kondowe was brought down inside the box, prompting referee Mayamiko Kanjere to immediately point to the penalty spot.
The move exposed serious defensive weaknesses on Wanderers’ right side, where Masiya Manda endured a difficult afternoon trying to contain Clever Kalambo’s movement and pace. Wanderers coach Bob Mpinganjira quickly reacted by substituting Manda just minutes after the opening goal as the Nomads switched systems in search of stability.
The tactical changes improved Wanderers after the break, particularly through Gaddie Chirwa, whose direct attacking play caused several problems for Bullets. Wanderers increased pressure and came close to equalising on numerous occasions, striking the crossbar three times during an intense second-half spell.
Therefore it was Maxwell Gastin Phodo scored a second goal for Bullets before Promise Kamwendo scored on penote sport for Wanderers after handball in Bullets box.
However, Wanderers’ hopes suffered a major setback after Chirwa was shown a red card following an altercation with Gastin Phodo. The dismissal robbed the Nomads of one of their biggest attacking threats and allowed Bullets to regain control during the closing stages of the match.
For Bullets supporters, the victory carried significance beyond just three points.
