Red Lions eye top-five finish
Red Lions have vowed to fight like wounded buffaloes during their home encounter against Civo United at Zomba Community Centre ground (Zacc) on Saturday so as to fulfil their latest mission to reclaim a top-five finish in the TNM Super League.
Lions coach Mike Kumanga said it has been a terrible season for them, but they would be grateful if they complete this season on the fifth slot as was the case last season.
They are currently on the seventh slot on 41 points and they might finish on ninth or tenth place this season if they lose their remaining games against Civo and Azam Tigers.
All along, the Zomba-based soldiers have been the favourites to win a league title for the first time ever until a string of four losses, including last Saturday’s 2-0 home defeat by their brothers in arms, Moyale Barracks, blew away their title hopes.
It has always been a so-near-yet-so-far story for the Lions in the league for the past five years as they could lead the log table with margins of up to 12 points at the end of the first round, but lose the grip in the final round.
“”We started well, but I cannot say what led to our recent drop in form. However, we will do our best to win the remaining games. Our next game against Civo is a must-win and we are ready for the battle,” said Kumanga.
He, however, dismissed recent media reports that his job is on the line due to the team’s recent poor results. He said such stories are inevitable when a big team like Red Lions face performance problems.
Civo United team manager Austin Nyondo, whose side is on 11th place with 36 points on the 15 team log table and also remain with two games, said they are also set to win the match to finish on a better position.
Mafco FC, who will face hosts Civo in their last fixture on Sunday, are at the summit of the league with 48 points from 27 games, but third-placed titleholders Silver Strikers seem to have realistic chance of taking the honours as they have 47 points, but remain with two games to wind up the league.
Moyale also have 47 points from 27 matches, but are second on the ladder due to better score margin.
Silver Strikers will host relegated Evirom FC. On the same day, Mighty Wanderers will face Blantyre United at Kalulu Stadium in Nchalo. On Saturday, Big Bullets will face Mponela United at the Kamuzu Stadium whereas Kamuzu Barracks will be up tagains Epac FC at Civo Stadium.
