By McLloyd Kudzingo
Christopher Kumwembe scored the first hat-trick in this year’s TNM Super League season as Mighty Mukuru Wanderers secured a well-earned victory over Red Lions at Balaka Stadium.
Christopher Kumwembe put the Nomads in the lead with a header in the 35th minute after receiving a cross from Wisdom Mpinganjira.
The former Civil Service United attacker scored his second goal 9 minutes in the second half after beating a defender and his goalkeeper before sending the ball into the back of the net.
Kumwembe then completed his hat-trick with a powerful header after receiving a cross from his captain Stanley Sanudi.
In Lilongwe, an early goal from Chimwemwe Idana gave Silver Strikers their first victory this season beating Blue Eagles 1-0 at Nankhaka Stadium.
The former Nyasa Big Bullets midfielder scored from a rebound after Stain Davie’s shot was fumbled by Blue Eagles goalkeeper Brighton Munthali.
Both teams finished the match with ten men as Silver Strikers’ defender Nixon Mwase and Eagles forward Schumacher Kuwali were shown straight red cards for being involved in a fight on the field.
After the match, Silver Strikers captain Chikondi Kamanga was voted man of the match.
Elsewhere, Karonga United and Chitipa United shared the spoils as they drew 2-2 at Karonga Stadium.
Sheriff Shamama and Saulos Moyo scored for Ingwina while the visitors got their goals from Mabuchi Msiska and Ramadan Ntafu.
After the match, Karonga United’s Eli Kayombo was voted man of the match.
In Chiwembe, rookies Bangwe All Stars and Azam Tigers played out to a goal-less draw at Mpira Stadium.
After the match, Bangwe All Stars defender Yamikani Mologeni was voted Man of the Match.
Mighty Mukuru Wanderers are on top of the log table with six points after winning all their two games followed by Silver Strikers and Azam Tigers who have so far accumulated four points.