MATCH REPORT;
RED ARROWS 1-0 NAPSA STARS FC
WEEK-SIX MTN SUPER LEAGUE.
NAPSA Stars FC faced a tough challenge against Red Arrows FC in a week-six match of the MTN Super League. The game, which kicked off at 13:00 at Sunset Stadium, ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for NAPSA.
The first half of the game started with both teams displaying solid defense and an intent to control the match. NAPSA Stars came close to breaking the deadlock in the 16th minute when Simon Nkhata delivered a precise free-kick, only to be denied by a crucial save on the goal line by Arrows’ goalkeeper, Kalumba. The tension remained high as the half progressed, with chances on both sides.
In the 28th minute, NAPSA Stars had another opportunity to take the lead when Leonard Mulenga’s header was stopped on the goal line by Kalumba.
The second half saw increased action and intensity. Unfortunately for NAPSA Stars, they faced an early setback as Zachariah Chilongoshi sustained an injury in the 48th minute and had to be substituted with David Odhiambo.
Arrows nearly took the lead in the 56th minute when Thomas Zulu’s header hit the post, but the subsequent attempt failed to find the target.
In the 59th minute, Arrows threatened again, with Ebengo Ikoko’s shot being parried by NAPSA’s goalkeeper, Mukwanya. However, the quick follow-up was disrupted by a foul on Mukwanya.
The crucial moment of the match occurred in the 66th minute when Arrows broke the deadlock. A miscommunication between NAPSA’s goalkeeper and defender led to an unfortunate own goal by Fredrick Mwimanzi, giving Arrows a 1-0 lead.
Despite their best efforts and substitutions, NAPSA Stars couldn’t find the equalizer. The game concluded with Red Arrows FC securing a valuable 1-0 victory.
NAPSA Stars had their share of opportunities in the first half, making this loss even more frustrating, especially considering their impressive 3-0 win over Zanaco in the previous week.
However, conceding a goal in such a manner dampened their spirits, though they showed resilience throughout the match.
“This is the second time we are conceding in a similar fashion, I am now getting worried but I am happy with how we creating so many chances despite the loss,” Coach Perry said.
Arrows’ Coach, Chissi Mbewe, was content with the result, acknowledging that his team needed to generate more scoring chances for future matches.
The Pensioner’s next fixture is against Mutondo Stars at Woodlands Stadium.