LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Red Lions have strengthened their push to return to Malawi’s top-flight football after securing a 3-2 victory over Mitundu Baptist at Civo Stadium on Sunday.
The win extended the Zomba-based side’s lead at the summit of the NBS Bank National Division League (NDL) to seven points, leaving them on 27 points and ahead of Baka City, who moved to second place with 22 points after beating FOMO FC 2-1 at Karonga Stadium.
The result also saw Mitundu Baptist drop to third on the standings.
The top of the table clash delivered all the excitement fans had hoped for.
Mitundu Baptist shocked Red Lions early when Raheem Mtondera scored in the first minute, lobbing the goalkeeper to open the scoring and take his tally to 13 goals this season.
Just before halftime, Red Lions equalized through Kaliwo Harawa, who finished off a precise cross from Hankey Machila, keeping the Lions in contention.
The second half began with Mtondera doubling his tally in the 57th minute after a slick assist from Charles Mbewe, putting Mitundu back in the lead.
However, Red Lions responded almost immediately with Harawa scoring his second in the 61st minute to level the match at 2-2.
Two minutes later, Mitundu had a golden chance to regain the lead from a penalty but Charles Mbewe’s attempt soared over the crossbar.
The miss proved costly as Ferguson Mtondo struck a powerful long-range goal in the 83rd minute, sealing a memorable 3-2 win for Red Lions and earning himself the Player of the Match award.
Baka City also strengthened their promotion hopes with a 2-1 win over FOMO FC at Karonga Stadium. Hastings Ndau put Baka ahead in the second minute, Hopson Adriano equalized shortly after the restart but Satiel Chirambo’s close-range finish in the 60th minute secured the win.
Enock Kaonga’s creative play throughout the match earned him the Man of the Match award.
Elsewhere, Mchinji Villa and Ndirande Stars played out a goalless draw at Mchinji Community Ground.
Despite the stalemate, Ndirande’s Khaleed Alli impressed with his energetic performance and was named Player of the Match.
Red Lions’ victory not only extends their lead at the top but also demonstrates the team’s determination and consistency, keeping their dream of returning to the TNM Super League firmly alive.
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