After starting life in the Debmarine Namibia Premiership with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Unam FC about a fortnight ago, African Stars head coach Mervin Mbakera yesterday warned that they will again be gunning for maximum points when they face Tura Magic tomorrow.
Stars will face Tura Magic at the Unam Stadium at 16h00 for their second premiership clash and in yesterday’s pre-match press conference, Mbakera outlined his intentions to lay ambush for Magic as he strives for consistency.
“We want to maintain our good start to the new season; we also want to continue creating an attractive brand of football and that’s the intention going into this week’s round of matches. We had a bit of a rough start against Unam in our opening match but it was to be expected, as we did not have football for almost four years. The players’ fitness and match fitness levels are not yet perfectly there but we are slowly getting there. We have great depth and experience in our current squad and I believe we will get the job done against Tura Magic on Saturday,” said Mbakera.
He highlighted that the objective of the clash is to avoid unnecessary errors and make sure they take their opportunities and eventually the whole three points.
“We also want to avoid unwanted errors as that could cost us the match. But the players have been responding very well at training and one can see they are ready to get the job done. I know the expectations of our fans and how much they want us to win matches, which is something I highly appreciate and that’s why we continue to strive for the best. The winning mentality here at this club and the desire to be the best is amongst the reasons I took this job and I plan to deliver on the expectations of the fans.”
Also speaking at yesterday’s presser, Stars CEO Lesley Kozonguizi used the opportunity to call on the club’s supporters to come in numbers and rally behind the team as the boys aim to maintain their good start against an unpredictable Tura Magic.
“With the support of our fans, I know the boys will do a good job. Tickets are available at almost all the usual spots and we look forward to seeing you all at the Unam Stadium on Saturday. Come one, come all,” said Kozonguizi.
Also in action tomorrow, Eleven Arrows will face Citizens at the Jan Wilken Stadium in Walvis Bay, while Blue Waters will square off against Civics at the same venue.
In Rehoboth, Orlando Pirates will take on Okahandja United at the town’s stadium, while Tigers will confront Mighty Gunners at the Khomasdal stadium. Young Brazilians will host Unam FC at the Karasburg stadium.
On Sunday, Blue Waters will start the day’s proceedings with a matchup against Citizens, and Eleven Arrows will follow thereafter with an encounter against Civics.
Orlando Pirates will face Mighty Gunners at the Rehoboth Stadium, while Tigers and Okahandja United will conclude the weekend activities with a clash at the Khomasdal stadium. – ohembapu@nepc.com.na