Zesco down Blades to make bright league start

Zesco United beat Konkola Blades 2-0 on Wednesday to signal their entry into the race for the 2017 FAZ Super Division title.

Goals from Lazarus Kambole and Idris Mbombo ensured there was not to be another
giant-killing act by promoted Blades after they beat Green Buffaloes 1-0 on April 15 at home in Chililabombwe.

But Blades were no pushovers at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola after packing eight men behind the ball to frustrate Zesco’s efforts.

Zesco managed to breach Blades on the stroke of halftime when Lazarus Kambole headed-in a cross from defender Fackson Kapumbu.

Kambole paid off the faith coach Zlatko Krmpotic had in him after replacing midfielder Mwape Mwelwa in the 40th minute.

Zesco could have added another goal in the 71st minute from the penalty spot but striker Jesse Were’s spot-kick was parried Blades goalkeeper Reagan Simango.

The home side won the penalty after Mbombo was brought down by Blades defender Bob Chansa.

However, Mbombo made sure four minutes later when he nodded-in another Kapumbu cross put the result beyond doubt against a difficult Blades side.

Meanwhile, Zesco stay home this Saturday where they host Nchanga Rangers.

Zesco’s win also means they now unbeaten in seven competitive games played in 2017 with five wins and two draws.