Mighty Mukuru Wanderers and Chitipa United missed a chance to move top of the 2023 TNM Super League as the two sides played out to a goaless draw on Saturday afternoon at Karonga Stadium.
Wanderers coach Mark Harrison made two changes from the first 11 that beat Ekwendeni Hammers 2-1 on Wednesday as Francisco Madinga and Peter Cholopi replaced Francis Mkonda and Miracle Gabeya.
The visitors dominated much of the possession in the first half but failed to create many clear cut chances. Chitipa United also struggled in the attacking third with Ramadan Mtafu proving to look isolated.
The only good chances for Wanderers were squandered by Gaddie Chirwa at 25 minutes whose shot inside the box went wide before Vitumbiko Kumwenda’s weak header from close range was well was saved by George Chikooka of Chitipa United in the closing stages of the first half.
The hosts had their good own chance in the first half through China Chirwa whose attempt forced defender Lawrence Chaziya to make a wrong clearance towards his goal but goalkeeper William Thole prevented an own goal with a save to concede corner.
The two sides played under pressure in the second half as they opted for long balls that halted the creativity part of the game.
Wanderers’ good chance in the second half fall on the 90th minute as Francis Mkonda’s powerful header was well saved by Chikooka.
The result has helped both teams to push a step up but they failed to move top.
Before the match Wanderers were 4th while Chitipa United were 4th both with 32 points from 17 points but now they have just dislodged Silver Strikers who had the same number of points to fourth from second.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets who have been spared this weekend due to CAF Champions League engagements remains top with 34 points from 17 points.
