Scores FC triumphed over Chipasula in a pulsating match at the Kalieka Primary School Ground on 12 October 2024, with a final score of 4-3. The match, which kicked off at 9:30 am, was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a flurry of goals and tactical shifts that kept the 200-strong crowd on the edge of their seats.
Scores FC adopted a 4-3-3 formation, which saw Misheck Shumba in goal, flanked by a solid back four comprising Chisomo Phiri on the right, Ibrahim Chipole and Yankho Kantayeni in central defence, and Ronald Jr on the left. In midfield, Zaheel Banda operated on the right, Blessings Chidandale held the central role, and Hazeel Banda took up the left side. Up front, the attacking trio consisted of right forward Josephy Lefani, striker Promise Saiti, and left forward Chifuniro Phiri. This setup was designed to provide width and pace in attack while maintaining a robust defensive structure.
The substitutes for Scores FC included Shafi Ali, William Chipwaila, Rasheed Semu, and Andrew Joseph Joseph, who would later play crucial roles in the match.
The scoring opened in the 19th minute when Hazeel Banda unleashed a stunning long-range strike, assisted by Zaheel Banda, sending the ball soaring into the net from outside the box. This early goal set the tone for an exhilarating first half.
Just 14 minutes later, in the 33rd minute, Chifuniro Phiri doubled Scores FC's lead with another spectacular effort, this time receiving a short pass from Promise Saiti before firing home from outside the area. The home side was in control, leading 2-0 as the half-time whistle approached.
As the teams returned for the second half, Scores FC maintained their momentum. In the 59th minute, Promise Saiti scored the third goal, finishing off a well-coordinated team move, with Josephy Lefani providing the assist. This goal appeared to put Scores FC in a commanding position at 3-0.
However, Chipasula responded swiftly, pulling one back in the 62nd minute, igniting hopes of a comeback. The visitors capitalised on a defensive lapse from Scores FC, and the match was now poised at 3-1.
In a tactical reshuffle, William Chipwaila replaced Chifuniro Phiri shortly after Chipasula's goal, and Rasheed Semu came on for Shafi Ali in the 64th minute. Despite the changes, Chipasula continued to press, and in the 74th minute, they capitalised on another defensive mistake to score their second goal, narrowing the deficit to 3-2.
With the match entering its final stages, Scores FC made another substitution, bringing on Andrew Joseph Joseph for Rasheed Semu in the 81st minute. As the clock ticked down, William Chipwaila stepped up to restore a two-goal cushion for Scores FC, scoring a brilliant direct free-kick from long range in the 85th minute, making it 4-2.
Yet, Chipasula was not done. In a dramatic finale, they struck again in the 90th minute, taking advantage of yet another defensive error to score their third goal, leaving the final score at 4-3 in favour of Scores FC.
The match was officiated by referee Lloyd Mulinga, whose performance was generally well-received, contributing to an enthralling spectacle that showcased the resilience and attacking flair of both teams. Promise Saiti's standout performance earned him the Player of the Match accolade, reflecting his pivotal role in Scores FC's victory.
