Azam FC silence Mbeya City

Dar es Salaam. Azam FC yesterday displayed their football prowess when they pummeled Mbeya City 2-1 in a mouth-watering tie at Chamazi Complex on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam City

Azam started the match on a high note and notched their opener as early as in the 10th minute. Mudathir Yahaya unleashed a sizzling drive that sailed deep into the net, leaving Mbeya City goalkeeper scrawling haplessly.

The goal changed the pace of the game with visiting Mbeya City attacking like a wounded lion, making a series of attacks in their attempt to score an equalizer. However, their efforts did not yield any fruit. In the 20th minute, match referee Martin Saaya awarded Mbeya City a free kick but Themi Felix sent it wide.

Azam continued to press for more goals with Kipre Tchetche sending home well packed shots for two abortive cornersin the 34th minute. A minute later, Aboubakar Salum alias “Sure Boy” was booked for foul play against Mbeya City’s Joseph Mahundi.

Never-say-die Mbeya City were at their best level looking for an equalizer. Five minutes to half time, Themi Felix again made a shot but missed the goal. Richard Peter also scored what could have been an equalizer but the referee Saaya disallowed it for offside.

On resumption, after receiving instructions from their coach during halftime, Mbeya City came back a rejuvenated side in the second half, making a series of attacks but Azam defenders were always alert to clear moves made by their opponents.

However, it was Azam whose efforts paid off in the second half. A 52nd minute goal by Kipre Tchetche was all that Azam needed to seal the win.

Four minutes later, Mbeya City’s efforts to score a consolation goal finally paid off in the 56th minute through Raphael Alpha.

With yesterday’s win, Azam FC joined Yanga and Mtibwa Sugar at the top of the premier league. Azam, Yanga and Mtibwa have each bagged 12 points to make the league table extremely hot.