Yanga extend points gap

LINDI: Young Africans took the helm of the Mainland Premier League with a 3-1 win over Namungo at Majaliwa Stadium in Lindi region on Friday.

Three second-half goals by Mudathir Yahya, Clement Mzize and Stephene Aziz Ki cemented Young Africans’ maximum points. Despite the loss, Namungo pressed Young Africans and got a consolation goal through a deflection by Ibrahim Hamad ‘Bacca’ who attempted to clear Namungo’s set-piece which unfortunately led to a Young Africans own goal.

As the match approached the final whistle, Namungo had two opportunities through Ibrahimu Mkoko, but he failed to convert either chance created by his teammates.

After securing a victory, Young Africans now sit at the top of the league table with 46 points from 17 matches, extending their lead over second-placed Azam who have 44 points from 20 matches.

Their closest competitor is Azam, who has 44 points from 20 matches. Having three more games ahead, Young Africans will be able to extend their lead in terms of points if they win all three or either.

Meanwhile, their rivals Simba are positioned in third place with 36 points from 16 matches. The 2023/2024 season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a three-horse title race between Young Africans, Azam and Simba.

These three teams are currently ahead of the other 13 title contenders by a significant margin.

Coastal Union, who are in fourth place, have only managed to gain 27 points from 19 matches, which is nine points behind third-placed Simba, who have three games in hand to play.

Azam, who have played 20 matches, are 17 points ahead of Coastal Union and Tanzania Prisons, who are tied on points. Kinondoni Municipal Council sits at sixth place with 25 points from 20 matches, followed by Namungo in seventh place with 23 points from 20 matches.