….Ekhaya 0-2 Bullets

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Ekhaya FC head coach Enos Chatama has expressed confidence in his side’s future despite suffering a 2–0 defeat to FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on Sunday afternoon in Blantyre.

The loss marked Ekhaya’s third consecutive defeat, but the coach insists the struggles are part of a learning process that will make the team stronger next season.

Speaking after the match, Chatama admitted that results have not gone his team’s way in recent outings. However, he maintained that the technical panel has already identified key areas that need improvement and believes the team will return “more dangerous” once those problems are addressed ahead of the next campaign.

The match, played at Mpira Stadium, saw Bullets start on the front foot, immediately setting the tempo with quick ball circulation and high pressing.

Ekhaya were forced to defend deep in the opening minutes as the hosts pushed numbers forward, stretching their defensive line in search of an early breakthrough.

Bullets’ persistence paid off in the 31st minute when substitute Maxwell Phodo, who had just come on for Mike Mkwate, found the back of the net. Phodo calmly finished after receiving a well weighted pass from Chikumbutso Salima, giving the hosts a deserved 1–0 lead.

Just before the halftime whistle, Bullets doubled their advantage. Ephraim Kondowe scored a fine goal in stoppage time after being set up by Phodo, capping off a dominant first-half display by the home side and sending them into the break with a comfortable 2–0 cushion.

Ekhaya attempted to regroup in the second half, while Bullets made tactical changes, including the introduction of Babatunde Adebouje in the 58th minute.

Ekhaya also responded with a series of substitutions, bringing in Kester Simbi, Vincent Salawila and later Clever Chikwata in an effort to inject fresh energy into the game.

Despite the changes, Ekhaya struggled to break down a well-organised Bullets defence. The hosts managed the game professionally, limiting Ekhaya’s chances and maintaining control as the clock ran down.

After three minutes of added time, the referee brought the match to an end with Bullets securing a solid 2–0 victory. The win further underlined their authority, while Ekhaya were left to reflect on another tough afternoon.

Maxwell Gastin Phodo was named Man of the Match for his decisive impact off the bench, contributing a goal and an assist. For Ekhaya and coach Enos Chatama, the focus now shifts to rebuilding with optimism firmly placed on a stronger and more competitive return next season.

Bullets remain on position two with 62 points from 28 matches while Ekhaya Fc stay on position 7 with 39 points from the same number of matches.

The Maravi Post