Head coach Peter Mponda spoke to club media ahead of FCB Nyasa Big Bullets’ TNM Super League trip to face Blue Eagles FC at Nankhaka Stadium on Thursday afternoon.
Mponda admitted that Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Mighty Wanderers in the FDH Bank Cup semifinal was painful but said the focus has now turned to restoring belief and positive energy within the camp ahead of the league clash.
The People’s Team are coming from back-to-back derby defeats and will be looking to reignite their title defence against a Blue Eagles side that has been difficult to beat at home.
He also expressed confidence that his charges will deliver a strong response and collect maximum points to keep pace with current league leaders Mighty Wanderers in the title race.
On Bouncing Back From Back-To-Back Defeats To Wanderers
“After the final whistle, everyone was frustrated — the supporters, the players, and myself included. Looking at how we played, to walk away with nothing was very disappointing and frustrating.
“I had questions on how to lift the players again, but the good thing is that they have responded. They’re in good spirits and they know that we need to fight for this championship.
“The game has come very quickly, which is good for us — a perfect chance to respond early after a painful loss. We’re looking forward to bouncing back.”
On His Expectations From Blue Eagles
“I’m not looking at records or what Blue Eagles have been doing in recent games where they won one out of three.
“We’re focused on this 90 minutes, which is very important for us. We need the three points if we are to bring our season back on track.
“The boys are rejuvenated, they are training well, and doing everything right. I strongly believe they have the answers.”
On Capitalising On Wanderers’ Cancelled Match Against Ekhaya FC
“Of course, we go to Nankhaka with a positive mindset — we want to win this game.
“We lost 1-0 to Blue Eagles at home in the first round. They’re a very good side, coached by a good coach in Dekrerk Msakakuona. But the boys are raring to go and want these three points.”
On Failing To Score In Recent Derbies
“I’m not worried about failing to score. I’m only concerned that we lost the games, not because we’re not scoring.
“In terms of goals, I think we’re still the highest scorers in the league. In the first-round game, we didn’t play well and were dominated. The second game, same story. But in the FDH Bank Cup semifinal, we dominated possession and created enough chances to win — we just couldn’t score.
“As a coach, my job is to find answers, and I did find them for why we were dominated earlier. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find why we didn’t score in the last one. This time around against Blue Eagles, we’ve worked on those areas and I believe the goals will come.”
On Maintaining Strong Away Form In The Title Race
“We’re not basing everything on history or statistics. We’re focusing on this 90 minutes and winning it.
“Blue Eagles are a good team, but the players need to respond after two consecutive defeats. The only way to get back is to win, so we’re going to Nankhaka for all three points.”
On Team News
“We have everyone available apart from Richard Chimbamba, who hasn’t been coming to training. Something happened and he decided to stop attending sessions.
“But apart from him, everyone else is available for selection.”
The Bullets mentor concluded by stressing the importance of focus and determination as the title race enters a crucial phase of the season.
