Malawi Wins over Mozambique - 07 July 2009

In the Picture:  Malawi Point guard, Dan Khomba (Club team: Bricks)

Malawi upset Mozambique
BY MPHATSO MALIDADI
16:12:34 - 09 July 2009

Malawi national basketball team recorded an important victory after defeating Mozambique 77-54 on Tuesday at African Bible College in Lilongwe during Independence celebration friendly match.

In-form forward Chikondi Mwendera scored 14 points while captain Hope Chisamanga and offguard Richard Chavula scored 13 and 12 points respectively to inspire Malawi to victory.

Reports indicate that Malawi were superior in all departments against the highly rated Mozambicans.

Malawi did not want a repeat of last year when the team lost its Independence friendly games against Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Malawi’s victory was achieved in absence of experienced Daudi Suleiman, Weluzani Chingota, Chimwemwe Mulagha and Victor Jere.

The home side dictated events throughout the game and by the end of first quarter Malawi were leading 22-10.

Mozambique tried to comeback into the game but Malawi maintained its composure to stay in control of the game.

At the end of second quarter Malawi were leading 44-24 before extending the margin to 60-36 in the third quarter.

Assistant coach Blair Phiri commended the players for their outstanding performance.

“The guys were committed. They were trying to prove that they are equally good. We did not miss the services of the other players,” he said.

The coach said Malawi needs more international games.

“The game is an indicator that we have good players, who need support,” he said.

Basketball Association of Malawi (Basmal) vice president Jacob Chikoya said the combination of the technical panel played a crucial role in Malawi’s victory.

“We have a very good technical panel. People could actually notice that we were outstanding in all the departments,” Chikoya said in praise of the panel that was led by Zitto Phillips.

  
BY MPHATSO MALIDADI- The Daily Times

16:12:34 - 09 July 2009