Manchester Motor Spares FC are the champions of Blantyre District, First Capital Bank Katswiri U-19 League after beating Griffin Young Stars 3-1 on post-match penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time.

In a match that was played at Mpira Stadium in Blantyre, the two half’s of the match produced a balanced possession from the two teams with both sides creating a number golden scoring opportunities but lacked some firepower and clinical finishing, that forced the match to go into a post-match penalty after they equaled power

During the penalty shootout, Manchester motors converted three penalties while Griffin Young Stars converted one penalty only as two players missed their penalties which went over the cross-bar before Motor Spares goalkeeper, saved the fourth penalty of Griffin which was also a crucial one as it made his side to be crowned the 2023 champions Blantyre FCB U-19 League champions.

In a post-match interview, Manchester motors coach, Malison Duwe said it was a tough match as both teams were well prepared and he commended his boys for their good performance.

“Let me thank my boys for their good performance, the game was tough and our plan was to win it in 90 mins, but it failed and we went to penalties which showed that everyone was well prepared and it only took the grace of God that we won the match,” said Duwe

Griffin Young Stars coach, Ronald Kandulu said it was a good match but they lost it by not scoring in the 90 minutes because penalties are a game of luck.

“Congrats to Manchester Motors, we have lost the match, we got the chances but we failed to utilize them, penalties are a lottery, that they are completely down to chance, there is nothing you can do to prepare yourself for the unique pressure that comes from a penalty shoot-out,” Said Kandulu.

The win means Manchester Motor Spares has reached the regional level and will compete with teams that have done well at the regional level up to the National Level.

The regional team matches will be played next week in Mulanje