Match Report:
Raphael Nkhoma’s first half strike was enough for Karonga United to amass three points over Mzuzu City Hammers at Mzuzu Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The victory lifts Karonga United from the bottom half to the top half of the 2024 TNM Super League 16-member log table after collecting 26 points from 20 matches. They have recorded 7 wins, 5 draws and 8 defeats.
On the other hand, Mzuzu City Hammers have missed the opportunity to move closer to second-placed Mighty Mukuru Wanderers. Had they managed to overcome Karonga United, Hammers would have gone to just within four points from Wanderers. The defeat leaves them 7 points from the Nomads as they have amassed 31 points from 20 games.
After enduring a tough spell in their recent four matches, Karonga United needed a sense of positivity when visiting a team that they haven’t bowed down to in their latest three meetings.
Since beating FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, Karonga United had suffered two defeats and recorded two draws before claiming a narrow 1-0 win over Hammers who have just won two games in their latest five matches.
Oscar Kaunda’s side looked lively in the game, Ellie Kayombo’s long-range effort went wide before Nanison Mbewe directed his header wide. Another big change landed on to the feet of Kayombo who agonizingly missed the target in the 26th minute.
Hammers looked comfortable on the ball when the game kept on unfolding but their confidence haunted them. The hosts misplaced the pass at the back and Nkhoma unleashed a hammer effort that beat Chancy Mtete to hit the back of the net seven minutes before halftime.
Hammers ended the first half strongly but they couldn’t break Karonga United’s resilience. Coach, Kondwani Ikwanga introduced Chawanangwa Mkandawire, Brian Phiri and Samuel Adeyemi for Josiah Duwa, Gregory Mwase and Yasin Rashid hoping to up his attacking phase.
Oscar Kaunda with the aim of holding up the game, he made two changes as Ernest Mwenitete and Ernest Chisamba were introduced for Robert Luhanga and Raphael Nkhoma. Karonga sat back absorbing pressure from Hammers. The hosts fought hard to earn a point but their effort proved futile.
Hammers will look to bounce back from setbacks when they visit table anchors, Baka City in their next assignment while Karonga will take on Bangwe All Stars before facing Chitipa United.
