Barker calls for clinical edge

DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA SC Head Coach, Steve Barker, has urged his players to be more clinical in front of the goal despite a 2-0 win over Coastal Union in the Mainland Premier League.

Speaking after the match at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, the coach said his side dominated proceedings but failed to convert a number of chances, particularly in the first half.

“Obviously pleased with the result and the clean sheet, but there are aspects we need to improve,” he said.

Simba controlled much of the game and created several opportunities, but a lack of sharpness in front of the goal prevented a more emphatic scoreline.

Simba had a total of 14 attempts, with the majority (nine) coming in the first half and the remaining five in the second half. Of their efforts on target, four came in the first half, with two converted to goals, while only two were recorded in the second half.

Overall, the figures suggest that Simba started strongly and created more chances before half-time, but their attacking intensity and precision declined in the second half. The coach also pointed to unnecessary loss of possession at times, stressing the need for better ball management.

“When we keep the ball well and have good spells of possession, that’s when we look most dangerous,” he added.

Following the victory, Simba are in second place with 34 points from 15 games. They are four points behind leaders Young Africans and two points ahead of Azam, who have 32 points. Meanwhile, Coastal Union are in 13th place with 15 points from 17 games.

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Reacting to the results, Coastal Union Coach Mohamed Muya said decision-making was the key factor behind his side’s defeat.

“The main issue, especially for the players, was decision-making, the ability to correctly interpret and execute actions on the pitch,” he said.

Muya added that his team created chances but failed to convert them.

“That is what made the difference in the match. We also had opportunities, but we were unable to take them,” he explained.

He said the team had planned to remain defensively solid while capitalising on key moments.

“We agreed we would stay organised at the back and make use of our chances when they came. Unfortunately, we failed to take advantage of those moments,” he added.