BARNABAS ZULU
DESPITE suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Red Arrows in their final match of the Zambian Premier League season, Sensational Zanaco Football Club managed to escape relegation, offering a glimmer of relief for their anxious supporters.
The decisive goal for Arrows was scored by Angel Lubamba, securing a top-four finish for the Airmen and capping off a strong season for the Lusaka-based side.
The win ensured Arrows ended the season in fourth place, while Zanaco narrowly avoided the drop, finishing 14th with 39 points – just above the relegation zone and separated from 15th-placed Atletico Lusaka by a superior goal difference.
Power Dynamos were officially crowned champions for the eighth time in their history, despite only managing a 1-1 draw away to Nchanga Rangers in Chingola.
Zesco United finished second on the table with 63 points, after a thrilling 3-2 home victory over Atletico Lusaka.
Meanwhile, Nkana Football Club put on a strong performance in their final game, silencing Kabwe Warriors 2-0 to secure third place with 58 points.
Warriors, despite the loss, finished the season in fifth position.
The relegation battle was fierce, with Forest Rangers finishing 16th despite a 3-1 win over already relegated Indeni, who ended the campaign at the bottom with only 15 points. Lumwana Radiants also bowed out of the top-flight league after beating Nkwazi 2-0 but still fell short, ending in 17th position with 37 points.
As the dust settles on an eventful season, Zanaco can breathe a sigh of relief as they live to fight another day in the Super League. However, the pressure will be on the club to rebuild and perform better next season to avoid another close shave with relegation.
