Red Lions set off their defence of NBS Bank NDL leadership in second round against Namitete Zitha Sunday

* The race for the inaugural title of this second tier league has been tight throughout the first round and there is no room for error at the top of the table

* As Red Lions — who concluded the first round having won seven matches, two draws and two losses from 11 matches — lead with 23 points

* The Lions are ahead of runners-up Mitundu Baptist with just 2 points and three away from Namitete Zitha and five away from 4th-placed Baka City

By Duncan Mlanjira

Red Lions, who eye to return to the elite TNM Super League, set off set off their defence of NBS Bank National Division League (NDL) leadership in the second round against Namitete Zitha on Sunday at home Balaka Stadium.

The race for the inaugural title of this second tier league has been tight throughout the first round and there is no room for error at the top of the table as Red Lions — who concluded the first round having won seven matches, two draws and two losses from 11 matches — lead with 23 points.

The Lions are ahead of runners-up Mitundu Baptist with just 2 points and three away from Namitete Zitha and five away from 4th-placed Baka City.

Mitundu Baptist will be hosted by 8th-placed Ndirande Stars at Mpira Stadium on Saturday while 7th-placed Chintheche United will be at the same venue the following date against 5th-placed Bangwe All Stars, who have 17 points.

Also on Saturday is the match between 10th-placed Ntaja United (11 points) and 4th-placed Baka City at Balaka Stadium.

Ntaja share 11 points with Chilumba Barracks but separated by goal difference. Chilumba Barracks (11th) are away at Mulanje Park to face 6th-placed FOMO FC (16 points) on Sunday.

Jenda United anchor the log table on 12th with just 3 points from a single win losing all 10 in which they have managed to score 5 goals while conceding 23 — and are meeting Mchinji Villa (9th) at Kasungu Stadium on Sunday.

The relegation zone is very precarious as four teams are supposed to be chopped off to pave way for regional league winners from the South, East, Centre and the North while three top teams will earn promotion into the TNM Super League. 

Jenda United are definitely not on an envious record and perhaps they will cause some upsets along the next 11 matches — starting with fellow relegation zone side Mchinji Villa.

The NBS Bank NDL is being enjoyed and supported at all host venues, including having supporters following up their teams across the country and the fans can once again look forward to thrilling matches, rising talent, and community excitement as teams battle for top honors.

Following an action-packed first round, the teams are well-prepared to push harder ip to the final lap and as the second round unfolds, fans can expect more drama, goals — and unforgettable moments.

The league’s return is not only about competitive football but also about community growth since the matches continue to provide young players with opportunities to showcase their skills, while also drawing communities together for weekends of excitement and pride.