Drama unfolds as Two players called for POTM award in one game in NBM Women’s Premiership

There was unprecedented drama in the National Bank of Malawi (NBM) Women’s Premiership when league officials couldn’t decide on a single Player of the Match (POTM) winner following Silver Strikers Ladies’ 1-0 victory over Mighty Wanderers Women at Mpira Stadium in Week 5.

The confusion arose when officials struggled to choose between two outstanding performers: Mighty Wanderers goalkeeper Esther Chauluka and Silver Strikers’ goal scorer Deborah Henry.

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What Happened

Traditionally, one designated official selects the Player of the Match award in the league. This system had worked smoothly through the opening four weeks and was implemented to address selection controversies experienced in the Super League and other tournaments, where manual selection processes often left fans unconvinced about the chosen recipients.

However, after Saturday’s match, the designated official [name withheld] was unable to make a decision, expressing her dilemma publicly.

“I wanted to choose the Wanderers goalkeeper because she was outstanding, but I was told that a Player of the Match award doesn’t go to someone from the losing side,” she explained.

For the first time this season, multiple people were consulted in the selection process, including media representatives, who unanimously agreed that the Nomads goalkeeper deserved the recognition. When evidence was provided that players from losing teams could indeed win the award, officials initially called Chauluka forward to receive it.

This decision sparked immediate protests from Silver Strikers’ technical panel and players.

“How can a player from a losing side be named Player of the Match? Where in this world does that happen? That’s completely wrong,” voices could be heard from the protesting group.

Silver Strikers Women head coach Andrew Chikhosi eventually calmed the situation, leading officials to reverse their decision. They recalled Deborah Henry, who was already heading to the dressing room, and presented her with the award instead.

Players’ Performances

Both players had legitimate claims to the award based on their exceptional performances.

Chauluka’s heroics between the posts prevented what could have been a heavy defeat for Wanderers. The Bankers dominated proceedings, particularly in the first half, registering 14 goal attempts with 10 on target, yet managed only one goal thanks largely to the goalkeeper’s brilliance.

Throughout the match, Chauluka made eight crucial saves, including four from one-on-one situations, keeping Wanderers competitive and allowing their late pressure to nearly secure an equalizer.

The winning goal came after Ireen Khumalo’s free kick struck the post, with the rebound falling to Henry. Although Chauluka initially saved Henry’s header, she couldn’t stop the striker’s follow-up effort.

Henry proved to be Wanderers’ main tormentor throughout the match, creating numerous chances despite missing several golden opportunities. The goal added to her impressive tally of six goals in five league matches this season.

Silver Strikers Ladies maintain their perfect record with five wins from five matches, sitting atop the table with 15 points. Mighty Wanderers Women occupy fourth place with nine points from three wins and two draws.

This match highlighted the need for clearer guidelines regarding Player of the Match selection criteria in the NBM Women’s Premiership. Featured image: Deborah scored the winning goal against Wanderers.