By Precious Bwale
Power Dynamos head coach Oswald Mutapa says his side must quickly regroup after suffering a painful 2-1 defeat to Konkola Blades in their opening MTN Super League fixture.
The defending champions fell behind inside the opening minute when Clive Biyeta gave Blades an early lead, but Amine Hiver restored parity from the penalty spot in the 82nd minute after Jackson Mulambia was brought down in the box.
Konkola Blades, however, had the final say three minutes later when Wilson Chisala inadvertently turned Biston Banda’s corner into his own net to hand the hosts all three points.
Mutapa felt Power created enough opportunities to take something from the game but were punished for failing to convert their chances.
“We lost our first game, a painful one. I feel we created a lot of chances. We didn’t bury them. Also, I feel we conceded in minutes where we were very much organised, first minute and almost in the dying minutes of the game,” Mutapa said.
The Power coach refused to single out goalkeeper or any individual for blame, insisting the defeat was a collective responsibility.
“For me, I can’t blame the goalkeeper. It’s all about organisation. We don’t crucify anyone. It’s a team that has lost. We just have to dust ourselves off and move on.”
The result leaves Power Dynamos without a point after the opening round of matches, while Konkola Blades move to the top of Stream A following their impressive start to the campaign.
Power will now look to bounce back when they host Nchanga Rangers in their next fixture.
