November 22, 2007
A hastily prepared Mainland soccer team yesterday laboured to beat the well drilled visiting Zambian team by a lone goal in a friendly match played at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
It was striker Michael Chuma who scored the decisive goal barely two minutes after the kick off, tapping in Misango Magai’s defence splitting pass.
The Zambians had started the match at a cracking pace but they were caught unawares by the move, conceding a goal settled the match.
Chipolopolo striker Jack Chileshe threw overboard the best opportunity to level terms at 32 minutes, as his shot sailed over the bar with Mainland’s goalie Ali Mustafa well beaten.
Patrick Phiri, the visiting side’s coach who led the team into next year’s African Nations Cup finals brought in Nephius Banda, for Francis Kombe, but without impact.
Mainland striker Uhuru Selemani could have increased his team’s tally at 37 minutes, with better use of an intricate pass from Chuma.
Defender Sao Swedi made a timely clearance at two minutes before the half time mark, as custodian Mustapha couldn’t firmly hold the ball.
Chipolopolo dominated most of the second half with probing attacks but lady luck smiled for the hosts.
The Kilimanjaro showed gaps at midfield and forwardline as the visitors took controlled possession with dazzling moves. Despite giving the crowd long moments of entertaining football, the visitors failed to score.
Maximo brought in goalkeeper Shaban Dihile and the fans started booing both the coach and the goalie, chanting the name of top Simba SC goalie Juma Kaseja whom the coach pointedly left out of the squad.
Taifa Stars and Mainland skipper Mecky Mexime was also given a fitting farewell during the friendly tie, having played for the twin sides for eight years. He won the captain’s badge for five years, stamping his authority on the players.
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He played for only ten minutes before handing over the
national flag to new skipper Henry Joseph, while being replaced by Amir Maftah.
Still playing for the premier league side Mtibwa Sugar, Mexime was presented with a sports kit and a souvenir trophy.
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