Ethiopian Premier League: Leaders Mechal held by Diredawa

The 14th Round of the Ethiopian Premier League is halfway completed following Tuesday’s matches where league leaders Mechal missed out on an opportunity to increase their lead.

The club also known as Defence Force could only manage a 0-0 draw with Diredawa Ketema on Tuesday, leaving them within range of nearest challenger Hadiya Hosaina who return to action over the weekend.

Mechal looked like the most likely team to score on Tuesday but it was a rather underwhelming effort from the league leaders who could not break down a Diredawa side who were well organized on the day. Ethiopia national team legend Shimelis Bekele and his teammates are two points clear of Hadiya Hosaina with one more match played.

In the other match played on Tuesday, defending champions Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE SA) earned a much needed 1-0 victory over Ethio Electric. A brilliant first half free kick from Addis Gidey was the difference for CBE who had not previously won a league match since the beginning of November.

The result gives CBE a little breathing room away from the relegation zone, moving them to 14 points from 12 matches in 14th place on the table. Ethio Electric are one point ahead of today’s rivals in 12th position on 15 points.

League Table (Top-5)