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By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Power Dynamos coach Osward Mutapa has warned his players against complacency as the defending MTN Super League champions seek to build on their recent victory when they face Trident in the Transitional League on Sunday.
The Kitwe giants head into the Stream A encounter on the back of a 1-0 victory over Nchanga Rangers, with Joshua Mutale scoring the decisive goal in their previous home fixture.
Power currently sit fifth in Stream A with three points and will be eager to maintain their winning momentum as they continue their title defence.
Mutapa says preparations have gone according to plan, with almost his entire squad available for selection ahead of the Arthur Davies Stadium encounter.
“The training was good. Everyone was available apart from Frederick Mulambia, so we had everyone to choose from. We are good to go,” he said.
However, the coach has stressed that his players must maintain their standards in both performance and results, insisting there is no room for complacency as they look to collect maximum points.
“It’s a game that we need to take seriously to show consistency in terms of how we grind results and the way we perform. There is no need for complacency,” Mutapa said.
Despite Trident’s position in the standings, Mutapa is wary of the threat posed by their opponents, describing them as a technically capable side that can cause problems with their ability to retain possession.
“They are in the Super League and so far they have collected one point from the two games they have played. We have seen the way they are playing. They are a good team, very good on the ball, but we need to use our experience and play with the right attitude,” he added.
Trident occupy seventh place in Stream A with one point after losing their opening fixture against Nkana before holding NAPSA Stars to a goalless draw in their most recent outing.
They will be hoping to secure their first victory of the campaign against a Power side determined to build momentum following their opening win.
The two teams have met twice before, with both encounters taking place during the 2023/24 season. Neither side managed to find the net in either meeting, with both matches ending in goalless draws.
The previous results set the stage for another potentially tight contest as the two sides renew their rivalry in the Transitional League.
Meanwhile, Mutapa has expressed satisfaction with the atmosphere in camp, saying competition for places has kept his players focused and motivated.
“Camp is okay. Everyone is fighting for places. Like I said, we have everyone to choose from, so the mood in camp is very, very okay,” he said.
The Power coach has also called on the club’s supporters to turn out in numbers and provide the backing needed as the team targets another three points.
“As always, they should come in numbers and give the moral support that the team needs,” Mutapa said.
Power Dynamos host Trident at Arthur Davies Stadium in Kitwe, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 hours on Sunday.
