On Saturday, Konkola Blades Queens have set the early pace in the ZPL Women’s National Division Northern Zone with a commanding 5–1 victory over Amazing Grace, in a Week One fixture.

The Chililabombwe-based side produced a strong second-half performance to secure maximum points, with Nowela Mwanza scoring a hat-trick while Blessing Ngonga added a brace.

The result puts Blades at the top of the standings after Week One, with Indeni Roses occupying second position following their 2–0 victory over Kamfinsa Blue Eagles Queens.

Blades Queens interim head coach Chipulu Chileya said the team deserved credit for the result but admitted there were areas that needed improvement ahead of the next fixture.

“We started on a good note. In under 10 minutes, we scored. But after that, after scoring, we became complacent. So they had to equalize” he said.

Chileya said tactical adjustments at half-time helped change the complexion of the match, with Blades scoring four goals after the break.

“Positive Note” – Chileya.

“The second half, we came back. We made some tactical adjustments. And it worked for us. The plan worked for us. We scored four in the second half, which made five goals, which is very good for the team,” he said.

While pleased with the maximum points, the coach has already shifted focus to Wednesday’s encounter against Indeni Roses, describing the opponents as a highly competitive side.

“Starting on a positive note, it gives us the confidence for the next coming game, more especially in Wednesday’s game, because we are playing a highly competitive team. Indeni is a very good team,” he said.

He added that the team could not afford to dwell on Saturday’s victory and would use the remaining preparation time to address weaknesses identified in the opening match.

“You can have a victory, but there are always some negatives. So we need to polish that,” he said.

The coach confirmed that Blades would make further tactical changes as they prepare for their first major test of the new season.