NAPSA Stars will go into the final round of games at the top the FAZ/MTN Zambian Super League as Forest Rangers missed the chance to replace them following a 2-1 defeat away to Power Dynamos on Monday.
Luke Chamanga scored twice, in the 16th and 59th minutes, to condemn the former league leaders to a second consecutive loss. Zikiru Adams scored a late consolation goal but it was not enough to earn a point.
Also, on Monday, Kansanshi Dynamos held high-flying Green Eagles to a goalless draw at home a result which left the visitors in sixth place.
Nkana came from two goals down to force a 2-2 draw away against Red Arrows to remain in second place. Joseph Phiri gave Red Arrows the lead inside the opening minute of the game and veteran forward James Chamanga doubled the hosts’ advantage in just before the hour mark.
However, Nkana fought back with Idris Illunga Mbombo pulling one back in the 70th minute. Mbombo then struck four minutes later to complete his brace and earn the visitors a point.
ZESCO United stayed in the race for the title after edging Lusaka Dynamos 1-0 away from home. An own goal by Poso Mayenge on the hour mark handed the defending champions a narrow win which lifted them to third place.
In other games, Kabwe secured a 12th victory of the season following a 1-0 win against Lumwana Radiants with Akakulubelwa Mwachiaba netting the only goal. Nkwazi edged second-from-bottom Mufulira 1-0 courtesy of Davy Kalandanya’s strike.
Meanwhile, Green Buffaloes FC and ZANACO were both awarded 3-0 victories against bottom-of-the-table Kabwe Youth Academy and Nakambala Leopards respectively.
Following the conclusion of the latest round of games, only three points separate the top six teams with only one round of the season left as the Football Association of Zambia elected to end the season early due to clubs flouting COVID-19 regulations.
This means that six teams are in with a chance of clinching the title when the 27th round of matches is concluded. Forest Rangers, who are seeking their maiden title, had led the table when the season resumed last month.
NAPSA Stars (48 points) hold a one point lead over second-placed Nkana having secured a 2-0 win against Buildcon on Friday. ZESCO United and Forest Rangers are third and fourth respectively on 46 points while ZANACO and Green Eagles, both on 45 points, round off the remaining positions.
