Ahead of yet another big TNM Super League of Malawi match for The Cowboys on Wednesday afternoon at Mpira Stadium, Coach Enos Chatama shared his thoughts ahead of the tie.
The gaffer touched on the run-in nature of fixtures, Wednesday’s opponents, the Castel Challenge Cup draw, and much more.
Here is what Coach Enos said ahead of the showdown:
Preparations for Silver Strikers…
“It has been a congested fixture schedule, which has affected the boys in terms of fatigue and recovery. They haven’t fully recovered from the long journeys and recent games, but all in all, the fixtures have been lined up this way and we have to go on the turf, take on Silver Strikers, and be ready for the challenge they pose.”
The reverse fixture and Wednesday’s showdown…
“It wasn’t the true reflection of the game. We moved the ball properly, and it was one of our best games in the first round. We created a lot of chances. We lost due to individual errors, silly goals that could have been avoided.
This time, it’s a different game altogether. We shouldn’t look at positions. We are ready, we are at home, and it will be an entertaining game to watch.”
On wanting more in attack…
“We are a good team, but we have shortfalls in certain positions. We cannot fix that now; we just have to manage the squad as it is. Sometimes, when you go into big games, you have to measure your strengths and adjust according to the structure of the opposition. That is what gives you the dimension of the game we’ll have to play.”
On the Castel Challenge Cup Round of 32 draw…
“It’s a tough draw. Every time Super League teams face Premier Division sides, it’s difficult. We have to be prepared, but for now, let’s focus on tomorrow’s fixture—one game at a time.”
On team news…
“We will miss four players in this game—they are unfit for tomorrow. Saviel trained today but we still have to assess him tomorrow morning. It is tricky at this time because many players are getting injured due to the congested fixtures.
A lot of our players are young and not used to playing under these conditions. All in all, we must be ready and play football. We cannot complain; all teams are facing the same. We believe next season the authorities will look into this.”
On Ekhaya FC contributing 13 players to the Malawi U-20 national team…
“It’s a very good development for the team considering it is a project. If those players go through all stages of development, it will give the club an edge. We believe that in the next three years, we are going to have a strong team.
It’s a strong foundation. Any team that grows together becomes strong and forms a formidable side for the future.”
Words to the fans…
“The fans have to come and cheer Ekhaya. We are a project, and we have shown signs of promise even though we haven’t fared exactly as expected. With time, we are going to build a very good team. We will give them good football tomorrow—we will fight for every inch of the pitch.”
