NDINAWE SIMPELWE
Ndola
DESPITE failing to reach the Absa quarter-finals, provincial teams have picked valuable lessons in their debut participation.
The expanded K5.5 million-rich Absa Cup saw 10 provincial teams qualifying but none managed to go past the round of 16.
Some of the coaches spoken to expressed delight at competing in the Absa Cup.
Luapula Province representatives Mwaimwena coach Peter Sinyangwe promised that the team will bounce back stronger next year.
Mwaimwena were eliminated in the pre quarter-final after losing 5-0 to Power Dynamos.
Sinyangwe said his team allowed Power to dictate play.
“Lessons are many. The first lesson I have picked is that we have to believe in ourselves. If we had believed in ourselves, we could have done the right things. Next time we will do better. We need to prepare adequately and research on the teams we are facing,” Sinyangwe said.
Muchinga Blue Eagles coach Tryford Mambe hailed the decision by organisers to include provincial teams in the Absa Cup.
Muchinga were booted out at the preliminary round by fellow provincial outfit Malalo police from Northern Province after losing 1-0.
“It is a very good stage for the boys, lots of scouts came to watch. A lot of people approached me after the match to introduce them to the boys. It is a way to go, we need more of this. We thank Absa for providing all logistics for us to compete in this competition. We come from rural area in Muchinga Province, so giving us such a platform is a good move,” Mambe said.
National Division One side Indeni coach Tenant Chembo said a lot of teams from across the country have been starved of cup competitions and Absa has done the right thing to bring provincial sides on board.
“They have done well, it is a boost to these teams. It reminds of the Mosi cup, Heroes and Unity Cup. It is very encouraging and it is a big plus. We have been starved of cup games. This brings out the talent. We are scouting at the same time, so kudos to whoever thought about this idea,” Chembo said.
Indeni, who beat Super League side Nkwazi 4-3 on post-match penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time, will face Kabwe Warriors in the quarter-finals…https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/
