By: Draxon Maloya

Owen Malijani Stadium was the scene of drama over the weekend when Extreme FC defeated Plascon Mzuzu City Hammers 3–2 in a fiery Week-Four clash of the NBS Bank National Division League.

The home side struck first through Kondwani Dudu in the 21st minute, before Slay Antony added a brace in the 38th and 45th minutes. Despite trailing, the visitors dominated possession and pressed for a response.

Their efforts paid off when Hassan Luwembe pulled one back in the 33rd minute, followed later by Philip Mtika’s strike in the 73rd minute, capitalizing on defensive lapses from Extreme FC.

The match took a controversial turn when center referee Jabesi Chiphwanya left the pitch citing injury, handing control to substitute referee Pirate Chibageli.

His decisions quickly drew criticism, most notably a straight red card shown to Hammers midfielder Christopher Chulu after a mere complaint — a call that stunned players and fans alike.

With one man down, the Hammers fought valiantly but could not overturn the deficit, conceding three times while managing only two replies.

Extreme FC coach Dan Dzinkambani hailed the victory but admitted his side had been tested: 

“We endured the pressure this afternoon. Hammers came hard on us. The game was very tough, a wake-up call to my boys if we are seriously aiming to see ourselves in the FDH Premiership next season,” he said.

On the opposite end, a visibly frustrated Hammers Secretary General Benjamin Thole condemned the officiation: 

“I don’t know what happened for the first referee to fake an injury that necessitated that biased Mr. Chibageli Pilato to spoil what could have been another beautiful game of soccer,” Thole lamented.

This year’s NBS Bank National Division League has been marred by officiating controversies, with visiting teams frequently accusing referees of favouring home sides — particularly in the Central Region.

Sunday’s incident in Mchinji has reignited debate over the integrity of match officials and the fairness of competition.