Mafco FC captain Paul Khado Ndlovu has demanded his teammates take a hard look at themselves after the Salima-based side threw away a two-goal lead in the dying minutes of Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Karonga United at Champions Stadium.
The result leaves the greens languishing in 11th position on 23 points from 20 matches, and the manner of the collapse has left both players and supporters searching for answers.
Mafco appeared to be cruising to a comfortable victory after second-half goals from Zikani Sichinga (49′) and China Chirwa (78′) put them 2-0 up with just 12 minutes remaining. But Geoffrey Sibale and Anthony Mfune struck in the 88th and 90th minutes respectively to rescue an unlikely point for the visitors from the northern region.
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Speaking exclusively to the club’s media officer Kadzinje Kadzinje, Ndlovu didn’t hold back in his assessment of the performance.
“First and foremost, apologies to the fans. We need to do better and that was not good enough,” the defender said. “They deserve more. When we step on the pitch, we’re beaming with confidence that we’ll do what’s needed to get the result. But in contrast, we end up conceding those goals in such a horrendous way. Deep down, we know we’ve got to do much more.”
The dropped points compound what was already a difficult afternoon for Mafco, with several key players picking up serious injuries during the contest. The mounting injury list adds to the growing concerns surrounding a side that has won just six of their 20 league matches this campaign.
For Ndlovu, the psychological impact of surrendering such a commanding position could linger beyond the immediate disappointment.
“Mentally, this will hurt the lads because you don’t lose two precious points just like that,” he said. “These are the games where you’ve got to make use of the home ground to your advantage. Obviously this one will hurt, and I think everyone needs to take a look at themselves in the mirror.”
The timing couldn’t be worse for Mafco, who face a daunting trip to Blantyre on Tuesday to take on FCB Nyasa Big Bullets. The commercial city giants represent formidable opposition for a side low on confidence and bodies.
Ndlovu insists his side must respond immediately. “It’s a question of responding to this setback,” he said, though he acknowledged the task ahead will test his squad’s character and resilience.
With 18 matches remaining in the season, Mafco find themselves just seven points above the relegation zone. Saturday’s collapse serves as a stark reminder that in the unforgiving world of the TNM Super League, matches aren’t won until the final whistle blows.
For now, the greens must pick themselves up quickly. The Big Bullets match looms large, and there’s no time for self-pity in a relegation battle where every point could prove crucial come the end of the season.
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