Hammers Hammer Civil Service 3-2 to Boost Super Survival
Civil Service has two games left to conclude the season, while Ekwendeni Hammers has one remaining.
Rumphi, Malawi-Ekwendeni Hammers secured a crucial victory in their battle for Super League survival, defeating Civil Service United 3-2 in a tightly contested match at Rumphi Stadium on Wednesday, writes Victor Musongole.
The midweek Super League clash began with Ekwendeni Hammers taking the lead, courtesy of Sammy Phiri's goal just seven minutes into the game. Binwell Katinji equalized for Civil Service United at 27 minutes, bringing the score to 1-1 at halftime.
In the second half, Wongani Lungu restored Ekwendeni Hammers' lead with a powerful shot outside the box, set up by Samson Chiona.
Blessings Singini extended the lead to 3-1 at 75 minutes with a well-executed freekick. However, Civil Service United responded quickly, with John Dambuleni scoring from a corner played by Festus Chikwezga to make it 3-2.
Despite Civil Service United's efforts to equalize, the organized defense of Hammers thwarted all attempts, securing the 3-2 victory.
Ekwendeni Hammers Coach Elias Chirambo praised his players, emphasizing the importance of the win in their relegation battle.
He stated, "The win is vital as we have moved from the red line. I should praise my players for a spirited performance. We will now focus on our last game, and if we win, we can survive."
Wilson Chidati, representing Civil Service, acknowledged the tough game and highlighted the positive aspects of his team's play.
"We anticipated a tough game, but scoring two goals away shows the team is good, and I hope we will rise in the coming games and survive," Chidati commented in a post-match interview.
Samson Chiona was named the Farmers Organization Limited player of the match for his exceptional performance.
With this win, Ekwendeni Hammers climbed from position 14 to 12 with 33 points from 29 games. Civil Service United remains in position 11 with the same number of points but holds a better goal difference.
Civil Service has two games left to conclude the season, while Ekwendeni Hammers has one remaining.
In other matches, Kamuzu Barracks secured a last-minute 1-0 victory against relegated Extreme FC in Lilongwe, and league leaders Nyasa Big Bullets drew 1-1 against relegation-bound Red Lions in Balaka.