Mixed reactions over league postponement
Imi Mokgethi | Tuesday September 6, 2016 14:57
Speaking to Mmegi Sport on Saturday during a one-day pre-season tournament here, Orapa United assistant coach, Zacharia Muzadzi welcomed the decision arguing it will enable players more time to refresh from last season.
“Unlike in the past, players will start the new season without any excuses of fatigue and they will be able to display their best performance,” he said.
Furthermore, Muzadzi said the one-day tournament offered them good training and an opportunity for new recruits to blend with old players.
“I am impressed with the boys’ performance. They understand our system and I can confidently say we are ready for the new season,” said Muzadzi.
On the hand, new Nico coach, Dean Mwiinde felt the postponement will psychologically affect players who were ready to start on the initial set date.
He said they will have to come up with ways of keeping players focused for the new season, noting that his goal is for the team to finish the season in a better position than last season.
“Most of our new recruits are from the lower division leagues and they are still learning the tactics for the Premier League. Although this is a challenge, it motivates us to work hard and it will be easier for them to adapt to my coaching style,” Mwiinde said.
He further pointed out that the team is progressing well, saying the pre-season tournament is a significant step to building their dream team.
The tournament ended in a 1-1 draw between the hosts Majombolo and the Ostriches in the final. Hotspurs finished third after defeating Motlakase 1-0 in the losers’ final.