Ekhaya turn focus to FDH Bank Cup as Chatama calls for mental shift

Ekhaya Football Club’s first 15 games in the TNM Super League cannot be described as a disappointing outing but rather an impressive run that has exceeded expectations for a newly promoted side.

The ambitious Cowboys have finished the first phase of the season respectably in fourth position with 26 points—the highest tally for a newly promoted team in recent years. They have lost just four matches, three of which came against heavyweight clubs FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, Mighty Wanderers, and Silver Strikers during a challenging July period.

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Head coach Enos Chatama made it clear earlier this year that survival in elite football was the primary target rather than trophy hunting, though he emphasized the team would not pass up silverware opportunities that come their way.

“Cup debut against struggling Moyale”

The Cowboys make their FDH Bank Cup debut this afternoon with a crucial away fixture against Moyale Barracks, a team currently struggling in the league standings. Moyale Barracks have managed just one win, three draws, and four losses in recent matches, highlighting their poor form.

The two teams previously met in the first round of the league campaign in Blantyre, where Ekhaya claimed a commanding 3-0 victory over the Soldiers. However, Chatama is cautious about expecting a similar outcome in Rumphi.

“We have been preparing for this fixture. As you know, this time we are playing in a cup game, and cup games are always tricky. All in all, as a team we are ready to face Moyale tomorrow,” Chatama told the club’s media team.

“Football is never the same. We played them last time in a league game and won 3-0 at Kamuzu Stadium. Today we are at a different venue, in a different competition altogether. Do not expect it will be easy because we won 3-0 last time. This is a different encounter altogether—the boys must be ready, psychologically motivated, and prepared in all aspects of the game.”

“No pressure approach”

Chatama revealed that the team has no specific targets for the FDH Bank Cup this season, maintaining their focus on survival and building for the future.

“We just want to survive this season and thereafter build a team for the future. We have a three-year plan, and after that we can start giving players pressure to perform and win trophies. Being our first season, we do not need to pile more pressure on the boys. They have to be comfortable and learn many things. It’s a process, and we have to let it flow,” he explained.

Ekhaya FC’s Recent League Performance: The Cowboys have shown resilience throughout their debut campaign, with their only defeats coming against established top-tier clubs. Their impressive goal difference and solid defensive performances have been key to their successful adaptation to elite football.

Moyale Barracks’ Struggles: The Soldiers have endured a difficult campaign with just one victory from eight matches played this season, collecting only six points from a possible 24. Their poor form has left them battling relegation concerns.

The cup tie represents an opportunity for Ekhaya to gain valuable experience in knockout football while maintaining their philosophy of gradual development. For Moyale, it offers a chance to regain confidence and potentially kickstart their season with a positive result.

The match kicks off this afternoon at Rumphi Stadium, with both teams seeking to advance to the next round of Malawi’s premier cup competition.