FCB Nyasa Big Bullets head coach Wedson Nyirenda is encouraged by the progress of our three midseason signings but insists they still have plenty to prove as competitive football resumes.
Zimbabwean forward Tinaye Tsimba, Liberian midfielder Sheku Sheriff and defender Alihaji Mnjale joined us during the transfer window, with the five-week break giving Nyirenda and his technical panel an opportunity to assess them through a series of friendly matches ahead of the second round.
“The break was well planned and allowed us to closely assess the players we signed during the transfer window,” said Nyirenda during Thursday’s pre-match press conference, adding that the trio had shown in the friendlies that they could fit well into his squad.
Despite their encouraging performances, the Zambian stressed that adapting to his playing system is only the first step, with competition for places remaining high.
“When it comes to game time, they still have to prove themselves. It is one thing to show that you can fit into the system, but it is another to secure a place in the team. They have to demonstrate that they are capable of playing for Bullets.
“It will not be easy because competition for places is high, and they must fight for their positions,” he added.
Tsimba and Mnjale underlined their progress by scoring their first goals for Bullets in the 4-2 victory over Extreme FC in Mchinji, our final friendly of the midseason break.
The new arrivals will now be hoping to translate their performances during the break into competitive opportunities as Bullets begin the second round against Blue Eagles at Mpira Stadium on Sunday.
The Matchweek 16 encounter brings together two of the FDH Bank Premiership’s leading contenders, with Bullets on 30 points, one behind Blue Eagles.
The two sides played out a 1-1 draw at Civo Stadium in their first-round meeting.
Victory would take Nyirenda’s men to the summit on 33 points, one ahead of Mighty Wanderers, who moved top following a 1-0 away win over Silver Strikers on Saturday.
Kick-off is at 14:30.
