Power Dynamos F.C. kept their title defence firmly on track with a commanding victory over Nchanga Rangers F.C. at the packed Arthur Davies Stadium.
Jacob Kaunda’s early strike proved the difference in a pulsating first half that saw the hosts dominate proceedings. Despite heading into the break without leveling matters, Power created a flurry of chances. Frederick Mulambia and Prince Mumba both came close, while Innocent Kashita saw a free header dramatically cleared off the line by Rangers shot-stopper Victor Chabu.
At half-time, head coach Osward Mutapa shuffled his team, withdrawing Ronnel Manyanga for Chfundo Mphasi in a bid to inject more intensity in attacking.
The champions emerged from the tunnel with renewed intensity, pinning Rangers back and knocking persistently on the door. Power’s pressure paid off in the 53rd minute when Ayodeji Bamidele split the Rangers defence with a clever pass from the halfway line to find Frederick Mulambia who checked inside his marker from right to left before rifling a low effort into the bottom corner, beyond Rangers goalkeeper Victor Chabu’s reach.
Just three minutes later, Power turned the game on its head. Kondwani Chiboni whipped in an inviting cross, and Innocent Kashita met it with a perfectly timed diving header to send the home crowd into raptures and hand Power the lead in the 56th minute.
The Chiboni–Kashita combination nearly produced a third in the 63rd minute, but Kashita’s audacious overhead kick went just over the bar. Coach Osward Mutapa continued to rotate his squad, introducing club top scorer Moses Shumah for Eddie Ishmael Ankobo in the 73rd minute and later in the 80th minute, Brian Masanyinga and Linos Makwaza Jnr replaced Kashita and Mulambia respectively, as the hosts looked to see out the contest.
While the fourth official signaled eight minutes of additional time, Power put the result beyond doubt. Prince Mumba slotted a defence-splitting through ball to Malawian international Chfundo Mphasi, who kept his composure to beat Chabu in the 91st minute for Power’s third of the afternoon.
Moments later, Mumba handed the captain’s armband to Salulani Phiri after Owen Tembo made way in the 93rd minute, to ensure victory for the defending champions.
The victory keeps Power second on the log with 42 points from 20 matches, just one behind leaders Red Arrows F.C., who have played two games more.
Attention now turns to Powers rescheduled 7 March fixture against Green Buffaloes FC at Arthur Davies Stadium, as the champions continue their relentless pursuit at the summit.