‘We are going back to the elite league’ – Songwe Boarder United

By Thumbiko Nyirongo

Songwe Border United coach Elias Chirambo says he has no doubt his side will return to the elite league after opening a six-point lead at the top of the NBS Bank National Division League.

Chirambo made the bold declaration after Songwe beat Ntaja United 3-0 at Karonga Stadium on Saturday to move to 31 points from 13 games.

“Obviously, we are going to the elite league, no doubt about that. Our supporters should continue to rally behind us,” said Chirambo.

Songwe took control of the game early when Shabani Thomas scored after three minutes, with Dickson Mwangonde providing the assist.

Mwangonde then doubled the lead in the 43rd minute after being set up by Evance Mwenitete.

Happy Ng’ona Mthuzi completed the scoring in the 72nd minute, assisted by Emmanuel Munthali.

Chirambo said Ntaja gave his side a tough game, but praised his players for fighting until the final whistle.

“Ntaja is a good side. They gave us a tough game, but we managed to win despite losing a number of chances. I want to congratulate my boys for the fight,” he said.

On his part, Ntaja coach Chimango Kaira said the scoreline did not reflect his team’s performance, insisting his players competed well against the league leaders.

“The result today is not a true reflection of the game. My boys played well despite losing,” Kaira said.

Kaira said Ntaja need to add experienced players to their squad and revealed that the club intends to use the transfer window, which closes on Monday, to strengthen the team as they fight to avoid relegation.

The victory means Songwe have now won 10 of their 13 matches, with one draw and two defeats. They have scored 24 goals and conceded 10.

Second-placed Extreme FC are on 25 points from 12 games and can reduce the gap when they face Namitete Zitha at Owen Malijani Stadium in Mchinji on Sunday.

Namitete are seventh on 18 points.

In the other Sunday fixture, Chilobwe United, also on 18 points, take on Mighty Tigers at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre.