GOBABIS – Mervin Mbakera, head coach of the Southern Stream First Division League (SSFDL) outfit Mariental Sport Club (SC), said the team’s stellar performance in the first two round of matches is fuelled by its desire to play in the Namibian Premier Football League next season.
Mariental SC started their league campaign on a high note when they crushed Celtic FC 3–0 on Saturday and went on to claim another victory on Sunday against Blue Boys, stunning the coastal side with a solitary goal.
In an interview with Nampa, Mbakera said the team’s target is clear – to gain promotion to Namibia’s elite league.“This is very clear, and the vehicle that gets you promoted is simply to win the league. Football doesn’t lie; the team with the highest points at the end of the campaign gets the job done,” said the head coach.
For that reason, Mbakera said his team will approach the season with a “game-by-game” mindset, ensuring that it accumulates as many points as possible.
He added that consistency, precision and maintaining the team’s playing identity throughout the season will be key factors in reaching their goal.
Furthermore, Mbakera said the team’s positive start is a collective achievement, and credit goes to the club chairperson, the management, the entire technical team, and most importantly the players.
“Our protagonists, who have shown immense hard work and commitment towards our season objectives. The boys displayed real character and resilience over the past weekend,” he noted.
The head coach emphasised that the club is still progressing towards optimal performance levels across all key performance pillars. The team will lock horns with Oranjemund FC on Saturday and will face an uphill battle against Quiver FC on Sunday.
Mariental SC are leading the log with six points, followed by City Boys FC in second place with four points, while former Namibia Premier League glamorous club Orlando Pirates occupy third position with four points but with an inferior goal difference.
The bottom of the table is occupied by Celtic FC, who are yet to secure a point in 12th position, while O&L Ramblers FC sit in 11th place without a point. -Nampa