Silver Strikers and Nkhwazi FC played out to a goal-less draw in a strength-testing match played at David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata, Zambia, on Sunday.
But the Central Bankers should thank goalkeeper Brighton Munthali for a five-star performance, as he denied the hosts three clear chances with finger-tip saves.
Silver also created scoring chances but failed to convert them into goals.
The hosts had an upper hand in the first-half, with Davy Kalandanya, Eric Chomba and Patrick Musonda causing plenty of problems to Silver defenders.
Musonda hit the cross-bar when Kalandanya outclassed Silver players on the edge of the box before sending a good cross to Musonda.
Sensing danger, Silver introduced Thuso Paipi and Duncan Nyoni for Jack Chiona and Prince Phiri, respectively.
The substitution brought life into Silver’s attack but they failed to unlock the hosts’ defence.
In the second-half, Silver displayed a much improved performance after the introduction of Timothy Chitedze and Zikani Kasambara.
In a post-match reaction, Silver Team Manager, Francis Songo, said the two games they played in Chipata gave them hope ahead of the new season.
“The two Zambia teams, especially Nkhwazi, gave us good games. I think we have benefitted a lot from the games and we will rectify our weaknesses before the season starts,” said Songo, whose team finished on position three on the 2017 TNM Super League log table with 61 points.
Nkhwazi Head Coach, Albert Mphande, praised Silver, saying they were a good side.
“They gave us a good game and they play entertaining football,” Mphande said.
Nkhwazi line-up: Ruben Chisala, Michael Bwalya, Kelvin Owusu, Rodrick Zimba, Nestor Mwilambe, Steven Mutama, Kalandanya, Dunga Lawrence, Chomba, Steward Chikandiwa, Musonda.
Silver line-up: Munthali, Yinusa Sherrif, Chisomo Mpachika, Mike Robert, Trevor Kalema, Phiri, Chiona, Lazarus Nyemera, Young Chimodzi Jnr, Green Harawa