By Ireen Mulenga
Israel Mwanza has launched his reign as Nchanga Rangers coach with a 2-1 win over Zesco Malaiti Rangers in a FAZ National Division One match played in Chingola on Saturday afternoon.
Mwanza, a former Nchanga Rangers and Chipolopolo defender, was appointed Brave coach this week after the firing of Bruce Mwape.
His first day at the office was not smooth as the 2-1 result could suggest because Nchanga needed late goals to overcome Malaiti at Nchanga Stadium.
Malaiti took a 1-0 lead into the half time break with striker Thomas Mubita breaking the deadlock.
In the second half Nchanga struggled to get an equalizer but kept on piling pressure to Zesco Malaiti.
Nchanga’s efforts finally paid off in the 85th minute when substitute striker James Kwame equalised to make it 1-1 after a counter attack.
The match was seemingly heading for a 1-1 draw when Kunda Nkandu scored a penalty deep in additional time to shock the visitors.
The win propelled Rangers to 27 points on the National Division One table after playing 16 matches.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Mwanza said it was a good and humble beginning for him.
He told The Independent Observer that he is happy to have a win at home and now looking forward to the next match away against FC Muza next weekend.
