MWANZA: AFTER their recent Premier League defeat, Coastal Union FC Head Coach Juma Mwambusi expressed that his team is using the loss as motivation to work harder and achieve their goal of finishing among the top four.
Mwambusi made the comments over the weekend following their 2-0 loss to Pamba Jiji FC in a league match held on Saturday at CCM Kirumba.
The hosts took the lead in the 18th minute through a goal from John Nakibinge and Abdoulaye Yonta sealed the victory in the 20th minute with a second goal.
“Though I’m disappointed by the loss, I must say that in the first half we fought hard, kept the ball down and created some chances. We recognised gaps in our opponents’ defence and tried to exploit them, but unfortunately, we couldn’t turn our opportunities into goals,” Mwambusi reflected.
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The former Mbeya City FC and Yanga coach lamented the missed chances, saying his team created several opportunities but failed to capitalise on them.
“Football is a game of mistakes and when you make them, you get punished. We made two critical mistakes in quick succession and our opponents took full advantage. Despite our efforts to recover, things didn’t go our way and we squandered the chances we had,” he added.
Looking ahead, Mwambusi shifted focus to their next match against Azam FC at Sheikh Amri Abeid Karume Stadium in Arusha.
“The match against Pamba Jiji is behind us. Now, we’re preparing for the next game and working on our weaknesses. The team is improving every day and as a coach, I will not give up,” he said.
After facing Azam FC on Wednesday, Coastal Union will take on Namungo FC at Majaliwa Stadium in Lindi on February 23.
On March 1st, they will play against Simba SC at Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha. Meanwhile, Pamba Jiji FC Head Coach Fredy Minziro congratulated his team on their third consecutive victory.
Pamba Jiji are currently in 8th place on the league table, with 21 points from 19 matches.
