Epac beats all odds to survive relegation: Beat Dedza Young Soccer
EPAC FC on Saturday defied all odds to beat Dedza Young Soccer 2-1 to survive in the TNM Super League and condemned the latter to the Chipiku League Premier Division.
The match was played at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe.
Dedza become the third team to be relegated from the TNM Super League and they join Airborne Rangers and Fisd Wizards, who were already eliminated from the top-flight league.
The victory was important for Epac as they won the battle against relegation and it was celebration time for the Lilongwe-based outfit whereas Dedza players wept in disbelief.
It was a bitter pill to swallow for Dedza fans and players. They worked hard, did everything but it wasn’t their day. However, parking the bus at the back cost Dedza the game.
The Chipiku League loved them most than the TNM Super League. Epac came from behind after Fletcher Bandawe sublime finish gave Dedza a lead but Ranken Mwale headed in the equaliser towards the end of the first half. The first half ended one-all.
After recess, Epac started playing with purpose. Mphatso Dzongololo was the hero when he scored the priceless goal in the second half to ensure Epac’s survival.
Epac have finished the TNM Super League with 30 points on position 11, a point above Mzuni FC, who lost 2-0 away to Mafco at Chitowe Stadium.
In post-match interview, Epac coach, Abasi Makawa was a relieved man.
“It was a wonderful performance from my players. Dedza came hard on us but the boys put a gallant fight,” he said.
Dedza coach, Millias Pofera was dejected and said it was a tough experience to be relegated but gave credit to players.
“The players played well throughout the season but it was not easy. We have learnt some lessons. We have good players and if we maintain some of them we will return to the Super League,” Pofera said.
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