Bolanews breaks down the winners & losers from the Kitwe Derby.
Winners & losers
It was a game of shifting paradigms as the scintillating encounter delivered edge-of-the-seat moments. When it looked like the game was headed for a scoreless draw at the Arthur Davies stadium for the first time since 2004, Dynamos proved to be too powerful for the visitors.
LOSER: Beston Chambeshi
For much of the first half, Nkana had the home side back peddling. The away side defended brilliantly and quickly transitioned into attack but their efforts were in vain at the end of the 90 minutes.
Chambeshi made a series of bizarre substitutions that couldn’t quite have an influence on the game.
The Nkana manager may have been disappointed in his troops for failing to cut open their opponents.
The League leaders came out guns blazing and could have opened up the scoring through Luka Chamanga if it wasn’t for a goal-line clearance from Stephen Chilu.
It’s now two losses for Nkana and perhaps the result is a reflection of the difference between the bitter rivals.
WINNER: Andy Boyeli
Cometh the hour, cometh the man, the league top scorer added to his tally. When it looked like the game was headed for a scoreless draw, Boyeli netted his 18th of the season. The spotlight was on the Congolese finisher prior to the game and he rose to the occasion.
LOSERS: Nkana Fans
Following the opening goal by Dynamos, a variety of objects were thrown on the pitch therefore hurting a match official and police officer among others. In an attempt to try and stabilize the situation, the game was halted.
With a shortage of security to mitigate the rambunctious crowds, various fans invaded the pitch. The visiting fans were the worst losers on the day.
WINNER: Kalonji Mwepu
Mwepu came on in the second stanza and set up the opening goal with a delicious ball. He was impressive since his introduction and it didn’t take long for him to impose himself on the game.
His passing was impeccable too, and Dynamos looked far more confident in possession with him on the ball.
WINNER: Joshua Mutale
Had a brilliant day in the derby, and danced his way to evade the opposition’s defense. He provided the assist for Dynamo’s second goal, with an inch-perfect pass on the edge of the box for Kalonji to pounce on. He won the Man of the Match award at the end of the game for his heroics.
LOSER: Nkana’s Defense & Attack
Porous in defense and blunt in attack, Nkana capitulated in the second half to hand Dynamos all three points.
Perhaps the result would have been different if Chambeshi’s men were clinical in front of the goal. it was an utterly miserable day that started off with several brilliant spots up front.
Nkana’s quick transition from defense to attack didn’t pay dividends.
WINNER: Mwenya Chipepo
His decision to turn to his bench was rewarded. Chipepo is on the cusp of handing Power Dynamos their first-ever title in over a decade and walked home with a massive derby victory.
Dynamos will take on Forest Rangers with ABSA Cup revenge on their mind. A victory could hand them the trophy, they have been by far the best team in the league this season.
