Blue Eagles are still showing that it was a misfortune for them to be relegated to the second-tier league last season after a last-game heartbreak.
The Area 30-based Cops have booked their slot in the semi-finals of the National Cup, FDH Bank Cup, after hammering struggling Baka City Football Club at Karonga Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Captain Schumacher Kuwalu scored twice before Paul Master sealed it for the visitors in front of Baka City’s supporters, they have reached the last four of the tournament twice in three years.
Elia Kananji’s team transformed their league form to the FDH Bank Cup as they have booted out three clubs along their way including TNM Super League leaders, Silver Strikers.
The Cops refused to lose some of their players earlier this year despite facing a disappointing chop from the elite league and their resilience to keep them is bearing fruits now as they featured a strong team that faced the Clever Boys.
Kuwali, the skipper led by example as he powered the Eagles in front just 9 minutes into the game. Despite an early setback, Baka tried to fight back and Joshua Waka called medical attention after absorbing the pressure from the hosts.
Waka produced some big saves to rescue Eagles before Kuwali doubled his tally to cushion the lead for Blue Eagles. Paul Master scored the third goal just before the break.
Efforts in the second half were not enough for goals to be recorded as Eagles booked a semi-final clash against Karonga United.
Meanwhile, Baka City head coach Kondwani Mwalweni said that he was not happy with how match officials have handled their match and believes that they agreed to give the game to the Area 30-based side.
He believes that the referee had a hand in the team’s defeat as the Eagles’ second goal was a foul in their favor, but still, the referee awarded them.
“It was a tough game, yes, but I’m not impressed with how match officials have handled this game, I think they agreed to give the game to Blue Eagles already. The second goal for them was a foul, but the referee awarded them, and it was the time our team was settling, so we were disturbed.” Said Mwalweni.
On his part, Elia Kananji praised his players for the fighting spirit and performance against super league side.
Meanwhile, Baka City switches their attention to the TNM Super League, where they are anchoring the 16-team log table and will be looking for a quick resurrection to remain in the league.
