Karonga breaks into top four with victory over struggling Hammers

Karonga United intensified Mzuzu City Hammers’ struggles, securing a comfortable 2-0 victory at Karonga Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The win propelled “Ingwina sya ku Karonga” into the top four of the TNM Super League standings.

Zikani Mponda opened the scoring in the first half, giving the hosts a commanding lead at the break. Saulos Moyo then doubled Karonga United’s advantage in the second half, sealing a well-deserved win.

Victorious coach Oscar Kaunda expressed his satisfaction, highlighting the importance of the home fixture and a desire for revenge. “It was a must-win game as we were playing at home, surrounded by friends and family,” Kaunda stated. “It also felt like a revenge match because they beat us in Rumphi in our previous meeting. I’m happy with how the boys played today.”

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For Mzuzu City Hammers, assistant coach Luckson Mauluka Nyoni admitted the need for a significant boost ahead of their crucial Mzuzu Derby against Moyale Barracks on Wednesday.

“It was a tough match. We could have scored in the opening minutes, but we failed, and then our opponents scored first,” Nyoni lamented. “I think we need to sit down and motivate the boys so that we can start performing well again, as things are getting tough.”

The match began with both teams showing intensity, seeking an early breakthrough. Karonga United’s Zikani Mponda Munthali had an initial attempt saved after a pass from Patrick Phiri, but he made no mistake in the 33rd minute, converting from a McLean Mwale delivery to give Karonga United the lead.

The hosts came out strong in the second half, and Saulos Moyo extended their lead in the 50th minute, further weakening the Hammers, who struggled to contain Karonga’s dominance throughout the remainder of the half.

Following this result, Karonga United now sits fourth in the league with 15 points from five wins and two defeats, having scored 9 goals and conceded just three. Mzuzu City Hammers, conversely, remain stuck in 15th place with a mere four points from one win, one draw, and four defeats this season, facing increasing pressure in their fight against relegation.