In the midst of a difficult run that has tested both belief and resilience, Ekhaya FC striker Clever Chikwata has stepped forward with a message of unity, accountability and renewed purpose.
Following a fifth straight defeat, Chikwata did not shy away from the reality of the Cowboys’ struggles. Instead, he called for calm heads and collective strength, insisting that the toughest moments are when teams must come together rather than drift apart.
“We must not look down in these difficult times,” Chikwata said. “This is when we have to hold each other’s hand. We are a team, and we must fix our problems as a team.”
The former Bangwe All Stars forward was particularly keen to address the supporters, urging them to stay the course despite the recent setbacks.
“To the fans, we ask that they do not turn their back on us. The journey is long and we will need their support. Be with us,” he appealed. “We must pick each other up regardless of the mistakes we make and who is at fault.”
Chikwata was equally honest in his self-assessment, placing responsibility squarely on the shoulders of the players, starting with himself. Joint top scorer for Ekhaya FC this season with five goals, the striker admits he must raise his level in the decisive moments.
“We know the levels we want to hit are high, and we know we have not done good enough,” he said. “Every player has to take responsibility in all departments. As a striker, I need to step up and score more goals. It’s everyone’s responsibility to make the team win games again.”
With the league season nearing its conclusion, Chikwata believes there is still something tangible to fight for.
The Cowboys will be exempt from action this weekend, before wrapping up their campaign against Mighty Tigers on the closing day, a match he sees as a chance to restore pride and momentum.
“The season is not over yet,” he stressed. “Now we must focus on our last game and make sure we get a win, then see where we finish.”
Beyond the league, the looming Castel Cup offers another opportunity for redemption, and Chikwata is clear that there is no time for self-pity.
“We cannot waste time feeling sorry for ourselves. We need to turn things around and put ourselves in the right bracket,” he concluded.
In a season that has swung between promise and frustration, Clever Chikwata’s words reflect a dressing room determined to respond together, with heads held high, and one final push still to make.
