Simba eye squad rotation after FA Cup win

DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA SC Head Coach Fadlu Davids emphasised the importance of giving his players ample game time following their dominant 6-0 victory over Kilimanjaro Wonders in the Federation Cup match over the weekend.

The match, held at KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam, was a crucial preparatory fixture ahead of Simba’s upcoming Mainland Premier League clash with Tabora FC schedule for February 2 in Tabora at the Ali Hassan Mwinyi Stadium.

Speaking after the game, Davids underlined the need for squad rotation to ensure that most of his players received playing time on the field, with the exception of goalkeeper Aishi Manula, who was absent due to illness.

“It was important for all players to get some minutes today and a few other players were unavailable, but Aishi is the only one missing due to sickness as is suffering flu,” said Davids.

“ While some key players were rested, Davids stressed that the significance of using the match as a preparation for their next premier league fixture against Tabora FC away in Tabora.

“All players were available, but they needed rest and now we have big preparations ahead of our away match against Tabora United this weekend,” he added.

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Despite the emphatic scoreline, the South African tactician praised Kilimanjaro Wonders for their resilience, especially during the first half. He acknowledged the challenges that underdog teams face and stressed that Simba’s superior quality ultimately made the difference.

“I must commend them for reaching this stage of the competition. It’s always nice to root for the underdogs. They tried their best, but the level of play was different. Well done to them and their coach,” Davids remarked.

The coach also expressed satisfaction with the performance of Omary Omary, who he feels has been steadily improving.

However, Omary’s time on the pitch was cut short due to a headache, which Davids mentioned would require medical evaluation.

“Omary has been training excellently over the last couple of months, and he deserved his chance. It’s unfortunate that he couldn’t play more today due to the strong competition in the double-six position. I’m happy with his performance,” said Davids.

On the other hand, Kilimanjaro Wonders Assistant Coach Wilbard Pacho admitted that Simba’s quality and experience proved too much for his side. He noted that an early goal, scored by Valentino Mashaka, disrupted his team’s confidence and composure.

“The early goal threw us off balance and the players were under pressure. Had we not conceded so early, I believe it wouldn’t have ended 6-0. After conceding the first goal, we still controlled possession,” Pacho said.

Despite the heavy defeat, Pacho viewed the match as a valuable learning experience for his young and inexperienced squad, remaining optimistic about their future performances.

“We came here to learn. Many of our players are young and still gaining experience, but I believe we’ll improve,” he added.

Pacho also revealed that his team had prepared well, identifying weaknesses in Simba’s play, but were ultimately unable to execute their plans effectively.

“We prepared thoroughly and expected to score one, two, or even three goals, as we had studied Simba’s weaknesses. Unfortunately, we didn’t meet our expectations,” Pacho concluded.