Mgangira to Navigate Defensive Crisis as Silver Strikers Face Moyale Without Key Duo

Silver Strikers head coach Peter Mgangira faces a defensive headache ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Moyale Barracks, with the Bankers set to be without both first-choice centre-backs Nixon Mwase and Maxwell Paipi.

Vice-captain Paipi has been sidelined with an injury sustained during the team’s match against Dedza Dynamos, while Mwase will serve a one-match suspension after accumulating three yellow cards in consecutive fixtures.

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The absence of Mwase, who has been a mainstay in the Silver Strikers lineup with over 30 appearances this season, represents a significant blow to the defending champions’ defensive stability.

Speaking to the club’s media on Tuesday, Mgangira confirmed that Chisomo Mpachika and Innocent Shema are both available for selection. However, Andrew Joseph remains unavailable as he continues to recover from illness and has yet to return to training.

Despite the setbacks, Mgangira remains optimistic, viewing the situation as an opportunity for squad players to prove their worth.

“I always say that if someone is out, those who are available should come in and do a good job,” Mgangira said. “An example is Innocent Shema, who played extremely well against Wanderers when he filled in for Paipi. That’s what is needed. We signed a good number of players, and everyone is equally important. Everyone should always be ready to come in and serve the team.”

Shema’s impressive performance against Mighty Wanderers over the weekend, where he partnered Mwase in central defense, has given Mgangira confidence that his squad depth can handle the current crisis.

Silver Strikers will be eager to return to winning ways after consecutive draws against Dedza Dynamos and Mighty Wanderers. Meanwhile, Moyale Barracks come into the fixture with momentum following their 2-1 victory over Blue Eagles.

The defending champions currently sit third on the log table with 41 points from 21 matches, while Moyale Barracks occupy 11th position with 30 points from 23 games.