The Pensioners took a massive step toward boosting their survival hopes with a crucial 2-0 victory over Zanaco, courtesy of goals from Dickson Chapa and Austin Banda.
The match appeared evenly balanced for most of the opening half, but shortly after the 40th minute, Napsa Stars were awarded a penalty after Wilson Chisala was sent off. Chapa converted from the spot to hand Napsa a 1-0 lead going into halftime.
Napsa made a blistering start to the second half, doubling their advantage in the 46th minute through Austin Banda, who capped off a surging run into the box with a powerful close-range finish.
Zanaco’s problems worsened when Fredrick Mwimanzi became the second player to be sent off after receiving a second yellow card following a verbal exchange with the referee.
Napsa Stars held firm to secure the win, climbing two places up the table to 14th as the relegation battle intensifies.
Speaking after the match, Zanaco head coach Numba Mumamba expressed frustration with the officiating, describing the result as disappointing for his side due to refereeing decisions which he felt contributed to Napsa Stars claiming all three points.
“Firstly, a very disappointing result on our part, but this has happened because of poor officiating from our referees. They have helped Napsa to grab the three points,” Numba said.
“This is a game that we controlled, but unfortunately, the referee decided to do his own and gave them a penalty, which they scored, and it dampened the morale of the team.”
Numba also called for issues surrounding poor officiating to be addressed.
“I think this is where integrity comes in. When the teams are complaining of such kinds of officiating, we need to have that integrity and make sure that football is played in a fair atmosphere.”
Meanwhile, Napsa Stars head coach Tenant Chilumba admitted his players are operating under pressure with only two games remaining but insisted the focus remains on collecting maximum points at home in the final stages of the season.
Chilumba added that every game is important but emphasised that his side was particularly determined to secure this victory.
It was a rewarding afternoon for the Pensioners, whose difficult campaign has now narrowed down to one objective — securing survival.
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