The Zambian Super League leaders Zesco United were defeated 1 goal to nil by Prison Leopards to start 2024.
Prison, led by Lameck Banda, the home team, and Zesco, led by coach George Lwandamina, knew what was at stake at Kabwe’s Ucar Chitalu stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Going into week 19 fixture, Zesco needed to win in order to open up a four-point lead ahead of chasing Red Arrows.
The first half almost ended without a goal when a Zesco defender handled the ball in the box setting up Prison’s penalty kick.
Eventual man of the match David Obasi converted in the 45th minute to give Prison the lead. Kenyan Ian Otieno was inches from saving Obasi’s kick, but the ball hit the post and rolled into the net.
Zesco (36) points, one better than two-times league winners, Red Arrows (35) chasing for their third league title.
Zesco assistant coach Tenant Chilumba attributed to the defeat to lack of sticking to the team’s game plan.
Lameck Banda elated with a victory over Zesco.
“The team did not play according to our game plan, things did not go as we had expected”, said Chilumba.
Lameck Banda, former FC MUZA tactician, he was elated that his team has started the New Year with a victory.
READ ALSO: Saddam Phiri nets a hattrick in Red Arrows 4-1 thumping of FC MUZA.
“We hope to build on this victory going forward in the league, we will step up and ensure to collect maximum points in upcoming matches,” he said.
Saturday fulltime Results
Nkwazi 0-3 Power Dynamos
Green Eagles 0-1 Konkola Blades
NAPSA Stars 2-1 Green Buffaloes
Nkana 2-1 Mutondo Stars
FC MUZA 1-4 Red Arrows
Forest Rangers 1-1 Zanaco
Sunday fulltime Result
Prison Leopards 1-0 Zesco United
