By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Konkola Blades coach Beston Chambeshi has expressed satisfaction with his side’s response after they came from behind to beat ZANACO 3-2 at Sunset Stadium, while urging his players to remain focused as they seek to maintain their winning start to the MTN Super League Transitional Season.
Sharp Razor recovered from a goal down to secure their second consecutive victory, building on their opening-week win over defending champions Power Dynamos to collect six points from their first two matches.
Chambeshi was particularly pleased with his players’ determination after the break, when they fought back from a 2-1 deficit to claim all three points against a ZANACO side he described as experienced and deserving of respect.
“It wasn’t an easy game, you know, playing ZANACO. This is a seasoned team, a good coach in Mumamba, and it’s a team which you have to respect, and we gave them the respect through our preparations,” Chambeshi said.
The former Chipolopolo coach praised his players for their reaction and attacking intent, which ultimately proved decisive in a five-goal encounter.
“I knew I was not going to play an easy game, but I’m happy with the way the boys have reacted. Especially in the second half, they came in numbers. They wanted a win, and we have won. I’m happy about the result,” he added.
Despite collecting maximum points from their opening two fixtures, Chambeshi was quick to remind his players that there is still work to be done if they are to sustain their early-season momentum.
He attributed the encouraging start to the preparations made before the campaign but cautioned against becoming complacent, stressing the need to approach the transitional competition with the seriousness it demands.
“It’s a sign that we had a good pre-season, but we are still in the early stages where we cannot start clapping. I think we have to make sure we approach this transitional league with respect. There are a few games, but yes, we are in the right direction,” he said.
Chambeshi further urged his squad to build on their positive results rather than become comfortable with their early success.
“We don’t have to go to bed and sleep. We have to start now pulling up our socks and make sure we maintain our momentum,” he said.
The Blades coach also addressed concerns over officiating, particularly a penalty decision in the match, having experienced a similar situation during their opening fixture.
However, Chambeshi stopped short of launching a direct attack on the match officials, acknowledging that referees were also learning while calling for improvements in their application of the laws of the game.
“Let’s hope now they have got their own school, so I cannot go in and attack the referees. I think they’re also learning,” he said.
“Even as coaches, we have to understand the rules of the game sometimes. That’s where the confusion maybe is coming in. But yes, they have to pull up their socks, the referees,” he added.
Blades turn the game around
Konkola Blades made a bright start when Clive Biyeta opened the scoring in the 16th minute, finishing off a Benjamin Saeli assist.
ZANACO responded in the 30th minute, with Dominic Kanda converting a penalty after Kiala was brought down inside the box.
The Bankers then completed the turnaround before half-time as Araina Lambert struck in the 43rd minute following an assist from David Bulaya to give the hosts a 2-1 lead at the break.
Blades came out with renewed purpose in the second half and drew level just two minutes after the restart when Boyd Musonda converted a penalty to make it 2-2.
The visitors completed their comeback in the 66th minute, with Jackson Phiri finding the net from a Biston Banda corner to seal a hard-fought victory.
The result leaves Konkola Blades second in Stream A with six points from two matches, reinforcing their credentials as early contenders in the transitional campaign.
Chambeshi’s men will now look to extend their winning run when they host FC MUZA at Konkola Stadium in Chililabombwe.
