ODE TO THE SLEPT ON SCORCHERS!

 Earlier this month, the Scorchers did Mother Malawi proud by reaching the semis of the Cosafa Women’s Challenge. If you are a keen follower of the Flames and their perennial struggles in Cosafa tournaments, you must be aware that reaching the semifinal stage of Cosafa tournaments is not a mean achievement. For your own information, the Flames last reached this stage back in 2003!

Inspired by the dynamic China-based Chawinga sisters, the Scorchers swaggered with style into the Semis, having incinerated Lesotho 9-0 and Zambia 1-0 in their Group B assignments. This run, unfortunately, hit bad luck in the semifinal where they fell 6-2 against the dominant Banyana Banyana.

While the Chawinga sisters deservedly got all the credit and limelight for the Scorchers’ exploits at the tournament, I think it is fair to highlight and recognize other members of the squad that held their own throughout the 3 matches that the team played. These are individuals that the country ought to give special recognition and support because of their valor during the Scorchers’ unsuccessful campaign at the tournament. These ladies are as follows:

1.      ZAINAB KAPANDA

Zainab attempting to orchestrate an attack against Zambia. Source: FAM

The diminutive forward announced her arrival at the tournament by finding the back of the net in the second minute of the Scorchers’ 9-0 victory over Lesotho. From this moment, the Blantyre Zero star, who captains the junior Scorchers, continued to justify her selection in the starting XI by providing a reliable outlet on the left flank. Zainab has a remarkable ball control and is unpredictable when in possession, qualities that make her a constant threat. What is also worth mentioning is her commitment to contribute effectively in both attacking and defensive situations when needed. There’s definitely more to come from this 18 year old rising star.

2.      PATRICIA NYIRENDA

Patricia, standing second from left. Source: FAM

The 22 year old Ntopwa Super Queens center back galvanized the backline with pride and commitment throughout all the 3 matches that the Scorchers’ played. Particularly, she showcased her character and mastery of the game against archrivals Zambia by shutting down the China-based Barbra Banda. Patricia used her impeccable athleticism and aerial dominance to neutralize all tricks that Barbra attempted to pull from her toolbox. It is unfortunate that Samir Amidu’s red card disrupted the team’s defense formation in the semifinal. Otherwise, before the red card, Patricia managed to keep at bay the elusive Hildah Magaia.

3.      ASIMENYE SIMWAKA

Asimenye in a previous encounter against Banyana. Source: Kulinji.

At a glance, she appears languid and unbothered. But don’t let her stature cloud your judgment. A combative attacker, Asimenye is blessed with ingenious trickery and has a down to earth attitude that allows her to always contribute 100% to the cause. Like Zainab Kapanda, the 23 year old Topik Sisters forward is endowed with a strong engine that allows her to put in a shift in both attacking and defensive situations. It was a shame that Coach McNelbert Kazuwa sacrificed her in the semifinal clash after Samir Amidu’s red card. Otherwise, she would have given the Banyana defense something else to worry about on that fateful afternoon.

4.      MADYINA NGULUWE

Madyina Nguluwe (13) leading a celebratory dance. Source: FAM.

Translated to English, nguluwe means a warthog. And one thing that warthogs are known for is their proclivity to dig through over a large mass of ground in search of roots and bulbs. In the same vein, Madyina Nguluwe has established herself at the base of the Scorchers’ midfield with her ability to dig deep and cover spaces while protecting the Scorchers’ backline. The 24 year old DD Sunshine star is composed enough when on the ball, which allows her to operate as an ideal conduit through which the team usually transitions from defense to attack. In addition to her quality on the ball, Madyina also possesses superior positional awareness, discipline, and the physical strength to dominate most 50 -50 situations.

5.      CHIMWEMWE MADISE

Chimwemwe in the thick of things. Source: Tabitha Chawinga

The DD Sunshine left back gave solid performances throughout all the 3 matches that the Scorchers played at the tournament. Good in 1 v 1 situations and blessed with frightening pace, the 28 year old provides solid cover on the left side, which liberates Zainab to push further forward. Adept with both feet, Chimwemwe is also dominant in the air, which makes her a complete fullback.

 

To conclude, it is an undisputed fact that Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga are the backbone of the Scorchers. Their exceptional talent makes them treasures that we ought to celebrate and honor. However, aside from the Chawinga sisters, the women’s national team has other talents that ought to be recognized and mentioned. These players provide the supporting system that allows the Chawinga sisters’ goals to turn into victories. Even those that I haven’t highlighted such as Ruth Nyirongo, Emily Jossam, Sabinah Thom, and the rest of the squad that travelled, all contributed in their own individual accord to produce a team that keeps this country hoping. Before I finish, I have one humble request. Next time the Scorchers play, particularly at home, please make time to attend the match. You won’t regret.