Ekhaya Women’s FC finished as runners-up in the Mayor’s Bonanza after a narrow 1–0 defeat to Kukoma Ntopwa Women’s FC at Kamuzu Stadium on Sunday.
In a tightly contested final, Ekhaya started the brighter side, showing early intent in possession and pressing high to unsettle their opponents and even struck twice at goal.
The Cowgirls controlled significant spells in the opening stages, moving the ball with purpose and dictating tempo in advanced areas.
However, as the first half progressed, Kukoma Ntopwa grew into the game, matching Ekhaya’s intensity and gradually reducing space in midfield.
Clear chances remained limited as both sides cancelled each other out, and the match went into the break goalless.
The decisive moment arrived after the restart when Joyce Makweya capitalised on a brief defensive lapse to put Kukoma Ntopwa ahead.
Ekhaya responded with sustained pressure and increased attacking urgency in search of an equaliser, committing numbers forward and spending extended periods in the opposition half. Despite their territorial dominance in the closing stages, they were unable to find the breakthrough against a disciplined Ntopwa defensive line.
The final whistle confirmed a 1–0 defeat, as Ekhaya settled for second place in the competition.
The Cowgirls conclude their campaign as runners-up, having reached the final after a strong tournament run, but ultimately undone by a single decisive moment.
Focus now shifts to their preseason preparations as they await for their second league campaign soon.
