Debmarine Namibia Premiership log leaders African Stars on Saturday suffered a 0-2 defeat against coastal giants Blue Waters at Walvis Bay’s Jan Wilken stadium, which saw their 22-game winning streak coming to an end.
Stars head coach Mervin Mbakera admitted that it was a disappointing outcome but said their ultimate objective of winning the league title remains well on course. He also praised Waters for giving them a good run for their money and how they approached the match.
“This is not the results we were hoping for, but let’s also not be too greedy at times. Our initial objective is to win the league, and although our unbeaten run is broken, we will march on. The boys gave their all, but I believe Blue Waters approached the game similarly to the first leg when we met, and unfortunately, there was a certain split second where we didn’t move at the right moment,” he said.
Looking forward, Mbakera stressed the importance of collecting maximum points in upcoming matches to secure the league title. “We have upcoming matches where it’s crucial for us to collect points to become champions, and that will remain the objective going forward.”
Meanwhile, Waters gaffer Lucky Shipanga expressed great happiness with the hardwork and dedication displayed by his players in securing the win against a formidable Stars side.
“I am delighted with the win. It’s a great one for both the players and the supporters. This victory is a result of our dedication, teamwork, and positive attitude, which ultimately translated into a massive win today,” said the coach.
In other matches on Saturday, Black Africa boosted their chances of avoiding relegation with a 2-0 win over archrivals Orlando Pirates at the SKW stadium, much to the delight of head coach Brian Isaacs who said they will build on the momentum going forward in order to avoid being relegated.
“It was a very important win, and we delivered a great performance. I believe this win was crucial because we are currently in the relegation zone, and it was imperative that we climbed out of that position. It was even a more special win against Orlando Pirates, a team we never want to lose against,” said a delighted Isaacs.
Meanwhile, relegation-battling Citizens on Saturday managed to garner a decent measure of hope when they secured their first win of the season via a 2-1 victory over Tura Magic, while Eleven Arrows and Young Brazilian played to a 2-2 draw. Unam secured maximum points as they defeated Civics, and Okahandja United continued their fine form with a 3-2 win over Julinho Sporting.
Mighty Gunners claimed bragging rights in Saturday’s Otjiwarongo derby when they defeated crosstown rivals Life Fighters 1-0 in a hotly-contested match.
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na