Malawi Defence Force side Red Lions became the first team to score against Azam Tigers in a TNM Super League match this season after the two sides played out to one-all draw at Zomba Community on Saturday.
The result means that both teams remain unbeaten in the league. Following the draw, Lions have 15 points from seven games while Tigers have 14 points from eight games.
Tigers’ resilient defence and impressive goalkeeper Nenani Juwayo have been making life hard for oppositions.
Juwayo was in top form again when he made a series of saves to deny Lions scoring opportunities in both halves.
Tigers appeared to be cruising for another victory after Clement Ng’ombe turned in a Lawrence Milanzi cross in the 42nd minute beyond Lions goal minder Bright Ngwenyama.
In the second half Tigers dominated the match but Lions threatened to score only to be frustrated by Juwayo’s exploits.
However, winger Edwin Ng’oma rescued Lions from the jaws of defeat when his connection beat Juwayo in the 90th minute. His historical goal brought relief to Lions camp as they feared for the worst.
Lions assistant coach Mike Kumanga said they were relieved to secure a point in a match they were about to lose.
“It was a difficult match and we are relieved to have earned a point. We gave out our best and we managed to score against them,” he said.
Tigers’ technical director Robin Alufandika said they could have done better with good officiation.
“We were supposed to win this match but the officiation was not up to the expected standards. I congratulate the boys, they have been impressive and they deserved to win hard it not been of other forces,” he said. – By Mphatso Malidadi
