Barker: Every player matters

SIMBA Head Coach Steve Barker has underscored the importance of squad depth ahead of today’s Mainland Premier League clash against Fountain Gate FC, as his side contend with key absences.

Barker faces a selection headache at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Memorial Stadium with veteran defender Shomari Kapombe and midfielder Yusuph Kagoma both ruled out after accumulating three yellow cards. However, the South African tactician believes this is the moment for his squad depth to shine.

“We believe in the entire group. Every player matters,” Barker told reporters during his pre-match briefing. “Matches like this are exactly why you build a deep squad. It’s an opportunity for others to step up, show their quality and make an impact.”

Simba currently occupy second place in the standings with 36 points from 17 matches. While they trail arch-rivals Young Africans by eight points, Barker’s side holds a crucial game in hand.

“It’s always a setback when they are unavailable, but whoever plays will be fully committed to the badge and will contribute to the team and the country. You don’t win titles with just 11 players, you win them with the whole group,” he added.

With Simba trailing by eight points in the title race, Barker admitted the challenge ahead but insisted his side must focus on immediate results.

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“Playing catch-up is never easy, but having a game in hand only counts if you win it. So, we must take maximum points tomorrow and follow that up with another positive result at the weekend,” he said.

Barker further highlighted the importance of building momentum ahead of a potentially decisive derby clash scheduled for early May, noting that consistent victories could put Simba within touching distance of their rivals.

Meanwhile, off the pitch, Simba’s Media and Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally, confirmed disciplinary action involving striker Jonathan Sowah.

“Sowah was suspended ahead of Simba SC’s match against Dodoma Jiji. During his suspension, he appeared before the disciplinary committee, where some allegations were confirmed,” Ally explained.

Following the hearing, the player was found guilty of misconduct and has been handed a punishment that includes training with the club’s under-20 side. The decision took immediate effect, with the club set to monitor his behaviour before considering a return to the senior squad.