DOWA-(MaraviPost)-MAFCO FC produced a spirited and disciplined performance to secure a crucial 2-0 victory over Civil Service United in a TNM Super League match played on Thursday at Champion Stadium.

Civil Service United started the match on the front foot, creating the first major threat of the afternoon through Dastan Baya, who broke through the MAFCO defence only to be denied by a decisive goal-line clearance from captain Paul Ndhlovu.

Minutes later, CIVO had another golden opportunity when Dastan Banda found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Christopher Mikuwa but his powerful effort was saved.

MAFCO eventually settled into the game and began creating chances of their own, with China Chirwa emerging as the team’s most dangerous outlet.

The forward forced CIVO goalkeeper Richard Mwaila into action several times as the home side grew in confidence.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 45th minute when Chirwa, a former CIVO United player, rose highest to head home the opener, sending the home supporters into celebration.

The goal not only gave MAFCO a valuable lead at halftime but also momentarily lifted them out of the relegation zone.

The second half saw CIVO push hard for an equalizer, earning set pieces and making attacking substitutions, including the introduction of Precious Chipungu, Muhammad Biason and Frank Chizuze.

However, MAFCO’s defensive structure remained intact, frustrating every attempt by the visitors.

MAFCO continued to threaten on the break, with Chirwa nearly doubling the lead through an ambitious bicycle kick that Mwaila comfortably saved.

The home side’s persistence paid off in the 88th minute when substitute Chifundo Mologeni finished off a well-constructed move, assisted by the outstanding Chirwa, to make it 2-0.

China Chirwa, who scored one goal and assisted the other, was voted Man of the Match for his exceptional performance.

Speaking after the game, CIVO Assistant Coach Charles Ben attributed the loss to poor decision-making in front of goal, saying his players failed to capitalize on their chances but promised to work on their shortcomings in training.

On the other side, MAFCO Head Coach Sterio Gondwe expressed relief and satisfaction with the three points, emphasizing the importance of the victory in their fight against relegation.

He pledged that his players would continue working hard in the remaining four fixtures to ensure the team remains in the top flight.

MAFCO now sit 12th with 28 points from 26 matches, while Civil Service United remain 5th with 37 points from 24 games.

The Maravi Post