Controversial Late Goal Gives Silver Strikers Edge in Top 8 Quarters
Supporters of the losing team threw objects onto the pitch in protest after the controversial ending.
LILONGWE, Malawi- A controversial late goal lifted Silver Strikers to a 2-1 victory over defending champions Mighty Mukuru Wanderers in the first leg of their Airtel Top 8 Cup quarterfinal match Saturday in Lilongwe, Malawi, writes Alinafe Nyanda.
Silver Strikers dominated the first half and led 1-0 at halftime on a 41st-minute goal by George Chaomba.
Wanderers fought back in the second half and equalised through Gaddie Chirwa.
With the match looking headed for a 1-1 draw, Silver Strikers were awarded a goal in controversial circumstances deep into stoppage time, according to football analyst Dyson Mussa.
"It looked like the referee had called for a handball, and Silver Strikers players were pushing into the penalty area while Wanderers players switched off," Mussa said.
"Silver Strikers were then able to proceed, and Stain Dave scored, though Wanderers protested to no avail as the decision stood in Silver's favour."
The late goal by Stain Dave lifted Silver Strikers to a 2-1 victory and gave them an advantage heading into the second leg of the quarterfinal tie.
Tatenda Joker M'balaka was named man of the match.
Supporters of the losing team threw objects onto the pitch in protest after the controversial ending.