PREVIEW: Nkana test unbeaten Zanaco’s character

Zanaco are in Kitwe this weekend to face nemesis Nkana in the big Week 9 showdown at Nkana Stadium in search of elusive away win there.

The Bankers have suffered successive defeats at Nkana over the last two seasons and last won at Nkana Stadium in 2012 when they beat the red enemy 3-1 on November 10 on their way to lifting the FAZ Super Division trophy that year.

Nkana coach Beston Chambeshi said his men are determined to maintain the status quo but were also trending cautiously against Mumamba Numba’s side who are unbeaten so far in the 2015 season.

“It is a big match and Zanaco are on top, they are also playing well and all that we need to do is prepare well and maybe get three points from them,” Chambeshi said.

“It is a big game and a game where we have to play well. Like I said we are ready for them and we will try to play well.”

Victory for 6th placed Nkana over leaders Zanaco will see them cut the gap between the two sides from five to two points.

Zanaco and Nkana are currently on 17 and 12 points from seven and eight matches played respectively.

Meanwhile, Nkana welcome back goalkeeper Scott Ngokane from suspension but he will seemingly not be automatic first choice with Rabson Muchelenganga outstanding during his two-match absence.

“I am happy with the strength and all I can say is that in the goalkeeping area, I am happy with the depth I have,” Chambeshi said.

However, defender and captain Donashano Malama is a doubt due to injury.

“He is the captain of the team and he has been one of our pillars,” Chambeshi said.

“Missing him is not easy but we have two-three players who can cover for Malama.”

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FAZ SUPER DIVISION FIXTURES
16/05/2015
Week 9
Nchanga Rangers-Napsa Stars
National Assembly-Zesco United
Nakambala Leopards-Green Buffaloes
Nkwazi-Green Eagles
Mufulira Wanderers-Lusaka Dynamos
Konkola Blades-Power Dynamos
Nkana-Zanaco
Red Arrows-Forest Rangers