The Maravi Post

LILONGWE--Civo Service United’s attacking midfielder Martin Masoatheka scored two goals in the second half against their TNM Super League city rivals Epac United to give his side a much needed win.

Civo’s latest patchy form saw them failing to mount any meaningful challenge both in league and cup games and they used Saturday’s game to try and turn things around.

During the first half, Civo’s mostly chased and had their goalie Onani Sengwa to thank as he made a number of vital saves to keep his side in the game.

But the real chance for Epac came in 26th minute when Wister Phiri’s short was denied by breathtaking save by Sengwa. Epac created numerous goal scoring opportunities but failed to make use of them. There was goal at the end 45 minutes.

In the second half, Epac continued from where they had left off with Potiphar Ganizani forcing Sengwa to make an early save.

The attacking duo of Mussa Manyenje and Jafali Chande proved to be a constant threat as they caused panic to the Civo defense. In the 52nd minute Epac made changes in an attempt to add fire power, bringing in Ishmael Thindwa and Darlington Chinthala for Jafali Chande and Potiphar Ganizani.

Thirteen minutes later Civo woke up from their slumber and went close to opening the score sheet as Lazarus Chirwa beat the offside trap and the keeper but his weak shot was cleared just before it crossed the line.

But seven minutes later, Epac failed to deny Civo their chance to take the lead. Nelson Kangunje’s adventurous runs saw him outpacing Epac defense and teed up Martin Masoatheka who finished neatly.

With six minutes to go, Civo doubled their lead when yet again Masoatheka was given too much space in the 18 yard box and he managed to slot his short past the keeper.

Epac scored their lone goal in injury time. It was 2-1 in favour of Civo at the end of the game.

Civo coach Alex Masanjala was happy for his side’s victory and hoped his boys would carry the momentum into their next game.

“We didn't play well in the first half but I managed to talk to them that we should be able to create a lot of chances and take them, so in the second half we were much better. Hopefully this win will boost our confidence going into the other games,” he said

His opposite number Albus Makawa conceded defeat and said that his side is showing signs of improvement.

“We have lost the game, I think we are having problems with the defense and I don’t think we are doing enough defensively. But at least in this game, the team has shown signs of improvement and I hope will get back to winning ways,” he said.
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