2023 ABSA Cup Champions Forest Rangers suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Zesco United as they wrapped the Super league Season at the Dola hill Stadium in Ndola on Saturday.
Collins Sikombe put Zesco ahead in the 19th minute to help the visitors emerge victorious in the local derby.
Meanwhile, Forest Rangers concluded the season sitting in 8th position with 48 points from 34 games played.
In response to the outcome, Forest Rangers head coach Ian Bakala believes the squad lost because they were still intoxicated from their ABSA Cup victory and did not execute their plan as planned.
“But I believe they entered the game believing they would win from the start; however, the game must be played in order to win,” according to Bakala.
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“I think from this game we have learnt something to start for the next season. I give credit to Zesco it’s the last game we just need to focus on what lies ahead. The players have taken something away from this, and for the upcoming season, we just need to stay focused.
“Bakala promises sparks next season”
Meanwhile, the former Kabwe warriors boss said the technical bench will plan well for the upcoming season.
“We have to plan well next season because I think the league is getting tough each season which comes. We are going to build a good team next season,” concluded the coach.
A first half own goal by Chanda Chileshe and a second half strike from Quadri Kola fired Forest Rangers to their first ever Absa cup title as they beat FC MUZA 2-0 to cash in on a whooping 700,000 Kwacha.
“Our ambition first was to get the Cup and the league came second of which we have achieved one thing, but I think towards the end we relaxed a bit I think we just need to plan well next season,” he remarked.
