MUMAMBA BEMOANS ABSA CUP EXIT

ZESCO United saw their hopes of winning a 7^th Absa cup title dashed following their 4-3 loss to Green Eagles through spot kicks.

The six times Absa Cup record holders played to a 2-2 draw after the final 90’ minutes leading the match to straight penalties.

Thabani Kamusoko, Clement Mwape failed to convert their spot kicks despite Ian Otieno pulling off a great save to provide ZESCO United a lifeline.

Saturday’s Absa Cup quarter final game between ZESCO United and Green Eagles was billed as the biggest game on matchday one.

Green Eagles drew blood in the 40’ minute through Shamende who dribbled his way through the ZESCO United defense before beating a helpless Otieno at close range.

ZESCO United would start the second half with a lot of oomph, hoping to get an early equalizer.

Indeed, it was a quick start to life in the second half of the game for the six times Absa cup winners.

Peter Manyangs glancing header found an alert Enock Sakala junior who was prowling in the penalty box to level matters for ZESCO United.

Sakala’s 54’ minute goal energized ZESCO United who surged forward looking for a second and winning goal.

ZESCO United defender, Clement Mwape put his side ahead with a powerful shot after Green Eagles goalkeeper spilled the ball in the penalty box.

With everything going according to coach Numba Mumamba’s script, Green Eagles coach, Aggrey Chiyengi looked to his reliable striker, Lineker Mwiikisa.

In the 85’ minute, Mwiikisa scored Green Eagles equalizing goal after muscling his way into the penalty box before unleashing a powerful shot in the left bottom corner of the net beating Otieno.

In his post-match comments, Mumamba bemoaned the team’s failure to qualify for the quarter final.

“The overall performance was fine. The team accounted for themselves well and I give them credit. We lost concentration at the end which forced the opponent to get an equalizer. Penalties are always difficult and don’t guarantee one a victory. They can go either way.

“Our focus from the beginning was to win the competition. We are disappointed that we are out at this stage.”

ZESCO United will have a week to prepare for revenge when the two teams clash in what is expected to be an explosive MTN Super League week 27 fixture scheduled for Choma.

“We need to keep our boys in high spirits. We need to keep pushing them. The focus has automatically shifted to the league where we are still in contention.”

Author: Desmond Katongo