Zambia: Red Arrows football club continued with their super-fine form with a thrilling encounter at the Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka and emerged victorious against Forest Rangers with a convincing 2-0 win.
It was a cool Saturday, and the weather had played its part with overhead clouds and a drizzling sky, but that could not dampen the spirits of the Airmen as they soared to a commanding victory over the Ndola side, also known as Fole Malembe.
Red Arrows started the match with an air of confidence and great intent, pushing for an early goal with Ebengo releasing Young Shipanuka, who failed to make it count.
It was a cagey encounter, with both teams trying to gain control of the game; the Airmen created the battle chances but failed to make it count. Alassane Diarra made a very good run but failed to find a teammate just before the virgin break.
The visitors started to have more influence on the game and had good set pieces in good areas, which they did not take advantage of.
The Airmen then opened the scoring in the 58′ through Ricky Banda who netted goal number eight for the season, after a very quick transition play, with a classic pass from Ciel Ebengo.
Substitute Edward Mwenya consolidated the result with scramble finish in the 82′ much to the excitement of the fans.
In a post-match interview, Red Arrows Coach Chisi Mbewe expressed happiness with the result and performance of his team. He, however, cautioned that it was not time for the time to go to sleep, especially with the four-week break as a result of the Afcon.
He stated, “This is not the time to sleep. We know the league is going on a break as such we need to be focused even more. We will continue working extra hard so that when the league resumes we keep our form otherwise we are happy with today’s results and performance.”
Red Arrows went into the game with class and showcased their dexterity on the field and on their special day when they unveiled their stunning and neat playing new kit during match day number 20, adding a touch of style to their dominant performance.
The team’s sponsors (Scimitar, Hisense, Betika, Pre Secure and Freddy Hirsch) and their officials who were in attendance; were treated to a memorable moment of Arrows ball playing game. They (sponsors) joined the Arrows fans in cheering and bonding with their team as the match unfolded to securing a significant victory.
The fans, draped in the new colours, created a vibrant atmosphere, celebrating every successful move and cheering for the goals with unbridled enthusiasm.
Post-match celebrations continued as players and fans engaged in a joyous exchange of palpable dances reflecting the shared joy of a well-deserved triumph and team spirit.
This victory marked a significant milestone for the Red Arrows, breaking the cycle of draws that had characterized their recent performances against Forest Rangers.
The Airmen, with their eyes set on greater heights in the league, left the pitch with heads held high, having delivered a decent assault that Forest Rangers could not withstand and believe.
As the final whistle echoed through Nkoloma Stadium, Red Arrows FC celebrated not only a win on the field but also a historical moment, unveiling their new kit and showcasing the strength and elegance in the kit that defines this elite Air Force-sponsored side.
The fans, too, left the stadium with smiles on their faces, having witnessed a spectacular performance that promises an exciting season ahead for Airmen when the games resume after the Afcon break.