By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Red Arrows will look to consolidate their position in second place in Stream B of the transitional league when they host Mighty Mufulira Wanderers at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka on Saturday, with coach Chisi Mbewe urging his side to build on their winning start.
The Airmen head into their first home fixture of the campaign on the back of a convincing 3-1 victory over Mutondo Stars in Luanshya, while Wanderers will be eager to respond after suffering a 4-1 home defeat by Green Eagles.
With the transitional league offering a shortened route to the title, Mbewe says collecting maximum points will be crucial as Red Arrows seek to maintain their momentum.
“I think this is a transitional league. It is a very short league, and our expectation is to ensure that we maximise the points. We continue where we left from Mutondo and ensure that we continue maximising the points,” Mbewe said.
The Red Arrows coach is encouraged by the atmosphere in camp, where competition for places has kept his players motivated ahead of the encounter.
“The mood is very high in the team. I think there is a lot of competition among the players. Each and every player is looking forward to this game against Mighty Mufulira Wanderers,” he said.
Mbewe added that preparations had gone according to plan, with the importance of the fixture providing further motivation for his squad.
“The preparations have gone on so well. Like I mentioned, there is a lot of competition in the team. Every player wants to be part and parcel of this game. And again, when you are playing such kinds of games, these are self-motivated games,” he said.
However, the coach has cautioned that Saturday’s encounter will present a different challenge from their opening match, with tactical adjustments expected as his side prepares to face the Mufulira-based outfit.
“This is another different game. I think we will make a few changes from the game that we played against Mutondo Stars in Luanshya,” he said.
Injury update and respect for Wanderers
On team news, Mbewe revealed that Sabiwa Kombe and Crispin Sikasiba remain in rehabilitation, although the technical bench is pleased with their progress.
“Only three players, I think, are still recovering and doing their rehabilitation. We are happy with the way they are recovering. I think Sabiwa Kombe and Crispin (Sikasiba), their rehabilitation is coming up so well,” he said.
Despite Wanderers’ disappointing start, Mbewe expects a determined response from the visitors and insists his players must remain focused on their objectives.
“We know it is not going to be an easy game. Mighty came from losing, so they are also coming here to try and fight and compete. The most important thing for us is that we are prepared and, like I mentioned, we maximise the points,” he said.
Red Arrows will also be counting on their supporters to provide a strong home atmosphere as they seek to make their first appearance at Nkoloma Stadium count.
“We just request our fans to turn up in numbers like always and ensure that they rally behind the team, support the team and ensure that we fight and maximise the three points together,” Mbewe said.
Head-to-head record points to a close contest
The historical record between the two sides suggests Saturday’s meeting could be closely contested.
In their last 10 meetings, Red Arrows and Mighty Mufulira Wanderers have each recorded three victories, while the remaining four encounters have ended in draws.
With both teams seeking valuable points for different reasons, the Airmen will be determined to capitalise on home advantage, while Wanderers will hope to put their opening-day disappointment behind them.
Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 hours at Nkoloma Stadium in Lusaka on Saturday, 10 October.
