Ntaja United registered a vital away win after edging Namitete Zitha 1-0 at Mchinji Community Ground on Saturday in the NBS Bank National Division League (NDL) — their fourth victory of the campaign.
The result saw Ntaja climb from 10th to 9th position on the log table, though they remain in the relegation zone of the 12-team league, where four teams are set to be demoted to lower regional leagues.
They are now tied on 15 points with Chilumba Barracks, who beat Bangwe All Stars 2-1 at Mpira Stadium, while Chintheche United were held to a 0-0 draw by bottom-placed Jenda United at Rumphi Stadium.
Elsewhere, 5th-placed Baka City (19 points) host FOMO FC (6th, 17 points) at Karonga Stadium, while Mchinji Villa (11th, 14 points) take on Ndirande Stars (6th, 16 points).
At Mchinji Community Ground, Ntaja United showed early intent, forcing Namitete Zitha’s defence into constant clearances. Their persistence paid off in the 19th minute, when a handball inside the box handed them a penalty — calmly converted by Lloyd Chilenga wa Ntaja.
The goal sparked Namitete Zitha into action, resulting in a more balanced contest, but Ntaja’s disciplined defending preserved their narrow lead until the final whistle.
Brian Kuntambira was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance in midfield.
At Mpira Stadium, Chilumba Barracks overcame a slow start to claim a 2-1 victory over Bangwe All Stars.
After missing several early chances, Chilumba took the lead in the 33rd minute through Febbie Nyirenda, who later turned provider for Justice Mwamsamale to double the advantage seven minutes later.
Bangwe pulled one back in the 55th minute through Moses Gunde, who tapped in a pass from Elias Mwandira, but despite late pressure, the visitors couldn’t find an equaliser.
Febbie Nyirenda was voted Player of the Match for his goal and assist contribution.
Meanwhile, Chintheche United and Jenda United shared spoils in a goalless draw at Rumphi Stadium.
Chintheche’s John Njakwa came close twice in the opening quarter-hour, while Aubren Nkhumbira also threatened, but Jenda goalkeeper Innocent Silangwa produced several key saves to secure a point for the visitors.
Aubren Khumbula of Chintheche United was named Man of the Match for his creativity and work rate.
On Sunday, log leaders Red Lions (26 points) face second-placed Mitundu Baptist (21 points) in a top-of-the-table clash at Civo Stadium.
