By BARNABAS ZULU
ZESCO United is ready for what acting head coach, Emmanuel Siwale describes as a challenging encounter against local rivals Forest Rangers today at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
“It’s another difficult game and I’m sure you know how derbies are unpredictable,” Siwale said. “We just have to mind our business. Our goal is to work hard and collect maximum points. We are ready for them.”
Zesco, currently sitting atop the league table, with 19 points from eight matches, are fresh off a victory against Indeni, which solidified their strong start to the season.
They have won six matches, drawn one, and suffered a single loss to Red Arrows, the defending champions.
The match against Forest Rangers, who are positioned seventh with 11 points from two wins, five draws, and one loss, promises to be intense. Both teams share the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, adding an extra layer of rivalry to the derby.
Siwale admitted the challenges, saying, “This is a new season and it will be a new day… We have worked very hard. Ours is to make sure that we collect maximum points.”
He stressed the need for the team to remain focused, saying, “At the moment, we have a target to beat whichever team that comes our way. If we don’t win, we will defeat ourselves. We just have to keep winning.”
Anticipating a lively atmosphere, Siwale called on fans for support. “Forest is our neighbour and we expect a large crowd, especially our fans.
They are the ones that have brought us to where we are. We appreciate their support because they are the 12th player.”
In other matches, Green Buffaloes will host Lumwana Radiants at Edwin Imboela Stadium in Lusaka, while Napsa will face Indeni at the same venue.
Mufulira Wanderers will take on struggling Nkana at Shinde Stadium while MUZA will play Atletico Lusaka at Nakambala Stadium in Mazabuka.
Nchanga Rangers will face Green Eagles at Nchanga Stadium in Chingola and Zanaco will host Mutondo Stars, who have proven to be a tough opponent this season.
Red Arrows will round out the fixtures against Nkwazi at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka in what should be an interesting encounter.
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