Super League sides Ekhaya FC and MAFCO FC have both attributed their FDH Bank Cup round of 32 defeats to poor officiating, with both coaches expressing frustration over refereeing decisions that they believe cost their teams progression in the tournament.

Both eliminated teams will now refocus on league commitments and other upcoming competitions, while Moyale Barracks and Mighty Wanderers advance to the next round. Other teams progressing include Chatoloma ADMARC and Civil Service United, who secured victories against Karonga United and Chitipa United respectively in their round of 32 encounters.

Ekhaya Fall to Moyale Barracks

Ekhaya suffered a 2-1 defeat to Moyale Barracks at Rumphi Stadium on Saturday. The visitors took an early lead through Hermas Masinja in the 13th minute, but their advantage was short-lived as Charles Nkhoma equalized from the penalty spot just five minutes later. Raphael Phiri then completed the comeback for the home side with the winning goal in the 32nd minute.

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Ekhaya head coach Enos Chatama was particularly critical of the officiating, claiming his side was denied legitimate penalty appeals while Moyale was awarded a questionable spot-kick.

“We could have been awarded three penalties, but we were not given any, yet they were awarded a penalty when there was no handball. This is unacceptable,” said Chatama. “I think when a team from the north meets a southern region team, we should have a central region referee to avoid favoritism.”

MAFCO Stunned by Mighty Wanderers

In Blantyre, MAFCO were comprehensively beaten 3-1 by Mighty Wanderers at Kamuzu Stadium. The Nomads scored all their goals in the second half through Isaac Kaliati, Blessings Singini, and Felix Zulu, while China Chirwa managed a consolation goal for the visiting soldiers.

MAFCO coach Stereo Gondwe praised his team’s first-half performance but echoed his counterpart’s concerns about the officiating in the decisive second period.

“My boys did well today and everything was good in the first half, but other factors led to our downfall,” said Gondwe. “In the second half, the referee frustrated us, but nothing can change that now. We congratulate Wanderers on their victory.”