OSHIKUKU – The fight for promotion to topflight football has intensified in the North West First Division, with the rivalry between Young Chiefs and Golden Bees likely to last until the very final day of the league after both teams collected maximum points at the weekend.
Chiefs defeated Young Stars at the Oshikuku Sport Stadium 1-0, thanks to an early first-half goal by Efraim “Fimbi” Willbard, to calm the nerves of Young Chiefs supporters who came in their numbers to help their team over the finishing line.
However, Young Stars showed character as they nearly equalised five minutes into the second half only to see the ball hit the upright. Young Chiefs goalkeeper made a fine save after a great strike that was destined for the top corner, but his finger tip save kept Young Chiefs in the game to bring the score 1-0 at full time .
Golden Bees came from a goal down to score two goals after Onambula United gave them an early scare in a game played at Etosha Sport Stadium in Outjo on Saturday to win the game 2-1 and keep their hopes for top-flight football alive.
In other results, KK Palace’s dream for top-flight football were dealt a huge blow after they drew 0-0 with Golden Bigs at Uukwangula Stadium on Sunday while African Lions defeated Eleven Warriors 2-0.
Onambula United suffered a second defeat of the weekend 2-1 at the hands of UNAM Ogongo, with Life Fighters playing to a 1-all draw against Black Africa in Otjiwarongo.
As it stands, Young Chiefs are comfortably seating atop the North West First Division with 40 points with only one game to play, while Golden Bees are in second place with 35 points and a game in hand against Young Stars.
However, Young Chiefs might qualify for Premier League football without kicking a ball, should Young Stars force a draw or beat Golden Bees in Outjo this Saturday. Young Chiefs face Golden Bees on Sunday May 26, kick off time 09h00.
North West First Division Log Standing
Team PTS
1 . Young Chiefs 40
2. Golden Bees 35
3. KK Palace 31
4. Eleven Warriors 30
5. Life Fighters 28
6. Golden Bigs 28
7. Afrcan Lions 26
8. Black Africa Warriors 25
9. Oshikuku Young Stars 24
10. Onambula United 18
11. UNAM Ogongo 17