By MOSES CHIMFWEMBE –
CHAMPIONS Zesco United make a trip to Mazabuka to face the ‘Sweet boys’ Nakambala Leopards in a MTN-FAZ Super League Week Three rescheduled encounter aiming for a win to close in on league leaders Zanaco.
The other rearranged match will see Power Dynamos desperate to pick up a win over a rejuvenated Green Buffaloes in what promises to be a tough encounter between two sides in need of points.
Zanaco lead the log with 17 points, three clear of Zesco, Power are fifth on 10 points and Buffaloes are in 10th position with eight points while Nakambala are at the bottom on three points.
Nakambala Vs Zesco
Zesco have an opportunity to join Zanaco on 17 points but can only go top of the table with a 4-0 victory at Nakambala Stadium to enjoy top slot on goal difference.
Of late, the dreaded Nakambala Stadium has lost its frightening touch of its seemingly ‘giant killing’ tendency that saw the home side rarely lose but that seemed to have changed.
With Zanaco snatching maximum points last weekend, Zesco will be looking forward to doing the same if they are to catch up with the leaders.
But Nakambala, who have struggled since the start of the season, will be eying their first win that could lift them from the bottom of the table.
Zesco coach George ‘Chicken’ Lwandamina has kept his entire arsenal that have been summoned to the Chipolopolo and Under-23 squads for this game and Clatous Chama, who has been impressive will be expected to deliver alongside Jackson Mwanza, Winstone Kalenga, and Justin Zulu.
Buffaloes Vs Power
Buffaloes seems to have rediscovered their winning form after claiming an away victory at Nchanga Rangers at the weekend but they will face a stern test from a wounded Power side.
Power dropped into fifth place after they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at Nkana and a victory today will see them move into third place on 14 points.
Coach Tenant Chilumba will be hoping striker Jimmy Ndhlovu delivers goals that have eluded the Kitwe giants in the last couple of games.
The Zambia Army sponsored side has adequate ammunition in Allan Mukuka and Felon Stonya while skipper Buchizya Mfune is expected to commandeer the defence and ensure any threats are repelled.
Coach Wedson Nyirenda, a former player of Power, will be demanding for positive response from Buffaloes who have so far managed two wins, two defeats and two draws.
(See Table on Page 19)