Speaking after watching his side defeat Gor Mahia 1-0 in a Caf Confederation Cup pre-group stage encounter in Nairobi on Sunday at Nyayo Stadium, Coach Fathi described the win as a big step.
“It’s a big step on our way to the group stage. Gor Mahia is a big team. It’s not easy to beat them at home. We know their record. It’s very good for us.”
Coach Fathi was impressed by his side’s concentration levels and ability snatch an equalizer at the depth of the match.
“When you play an away game, you have to build pressure on the opponent. When time is running out and they are not scoring, the last 10-15 minutes, the concentration levels drop and they tend to play high. This why we took our chances there”, he said.
Coach Fathi urged caution from his players ahead of the Return Leg of the fixture next Sunday.
“Business is not yet over. Football is an unpredictable game. We have to keep focused. We have to finish the game at home. Immediately we get on the plane to Zambia, the celebration is over. It’s time to work!” he warned.
On the injury scare for Augustine Banda, the Pensioners Coach said he will await the medical assessment.
“So far so good. He is much better. We have the medical team to do the recovery and assess the player. We will wait for their assessment report as we plan for the next game.”
Coach Fathi took time to praise his team’s tactical discipline.
“The game was locked in the midfield. Although they (Gor Mahia) pushed hard in the second half, our goal keeper, midfield and defense did a good job. Everything worked according to our tactical plan. That’s how we managed to win the game.”
On the handing playing opportunities to young players, Coach Fathi urged the gradual integration of young players into the team.
“This is how we give wings to the youngsters. We are not afraid to feature the youngsters. We don’t want to rush the young players. We want them to learn the tactics gradually.”
Coach Fathi concluded by thanking the fans and club management for the support. He also praised the players’ for putting maximum efforts on the pitch to make the win possible.
Great job NAPSA have done us proud