Bankers Win First Charity Shield

Silver Strikers have secured their first NBS Bank Charity Shield after beating Mighty Wanderers in post-match penalties at Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe.

The Central Bankers triumphed 5-3 in the shootout, with goalkeeper George Chikooka emerging as the hero after saving Blessings Singini’s penalty.

Silver Strikers had a sluggish start to the match, struggling to create clear chances. Zebron Kalima came close in the 8th minute with a long-range effort that missed the target. Wanderers capitalized on Silver’s slow beginning, taking the lead in the 26th minute through Sama Thierry’s strike, which left Chikooka helpless.

In the dying minutes of the first half, Silver Strikers made crucial substitutions, bringing on Binwell Katinji, Chinsisi Maonga, and Uchizi Vunga for Gift Chunga, Emmanuel Allan, and Festus Duwe. Wanderers maintained their lead going into halftime.

The second half saw a rejuvenated Silver Strikers side. Katinji equalized in the 55th minute after converting a precise pass from Precious Sambani. Wanderers responded swiftly, reclaiming the lead in the 68th minute through a powerful penalty by Blessings Singini. However, their momentum was halted when captain Lawrence Chaziya received a red card for a reckless challenge on Maonga just two minutes later.

Silver Strikers took advantage of the numerical edge. At the 72nd minute mark, Stanie Davie replaced Chikondi Kamanga, and moments later, Zebron Kalima leveled the score again, finishing off a throw-in from McDonald Lameck.

With neither team finding a decisive third goal, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. Silver Strikers converted all five of their spot-kicks through Chimwemwe Idana, Innocent Shema, Chinsisi Maonga, McDonald Lameck, and Binwell Katinji, sealing their first-ever Charity Shield victory.

Speaking after the win, Silver Strikers head coach Mgangira praised his team’s resilience and determination. “It was a good match despite our slow start. We showed character to come back and win. This victory will boost our confidence heading into the new season,” he said.

The win serves as redemption for Silver Strikers, who lost last year’s Charity Shield to Bullets at the same venue. It also sets a promising tone for their ambitions in the upcoming season.