Ekhaya FC’s FDH Bank Cup campaign came to a premature end on Saturday afternoon after suffering a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Moyale Barracks FC at Rumphi Stadium.
Despite a bright start and an early lead through Hermas Masinja, two quick responses from Charles Nkhoma and Raphael Phiri sealed the comeback for the hosts before halftime.
How It happened
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The Cowboys began on the front foot, pressing high and earning two early corners in the opening six minutes.
Their intent soon paid off: in the 13th minute, Andrew Lameck delivered a well-placed freekick into the danger zone, and Hermas Masinja timed his run perfectly to slot home a low finish, putting Ekhaya 1-0 ahead.
But the advantage didn’t last long. Just six minutes later, Moyale drew level from the penalty spot when Charles Nkhoma converted calmly to make it 1-1.
Momentum swung in the hosts’ favour as the half progressed, and in the 32nd minute, Raphael Phiri struck from close range, completing the turnaround to give Moyale a 2-1 lead.
Despite Ekhaya’s bright spells of possession, Moyale’s clinical edge proved decisive, and the Cowboys went into the break trailing.
Ekhaya returned with intent after the restart, reshuffling their setup in search of an equaliser. Defender Kesten Simbi replaced attacking midfielder Lovemore Mbeta on 58 minutes, moving Hermas Masinja up on the right wing, trying to inject some pace upfront.
The Cowboys pushed forward relentlessly, but Moyale’s defence stood tall, cutting out wave after wave of attacks.
Tensions rose when Lessman Singini was booked for a rough challenge in the 68th minute, but the Soldiers kept their composure at the back.
Stanley Billiat made way for Matamando Mwatchipisa on 75 minutes, yet despite the changes, clear-cut chances were hard to come by.
With the clock ticking down, Ekhaya threw everything forward. In stoppage time, Chimwemwe Yassin replaced Andrew Lameck as the Cowboys went all out for a late equaliser.
Five additional minutes brought heavy pressure, but Moyale held firm until the final whistle to claim victory. 2-1 it ended.
What It Means
The result ends Ekhaya’s journey in the 2025 FDH Bank Cup at the Round of 32 stage. Having started brightly, the Cowboys will rue missed chances and a lack of cutting edge in the final third.
Next Up
Attention now shifts back to league duties, with Ekhaya FC set to host Mzuzu City Hammers next weekend in a crucial championship fixture at Kamuzu Stadium.
