Goncalves admits Simba started Kariakoo derby better than Young Africans

Young Africans coach Pedro Goncalves conceded their rivals Simba SC started the strongest side in their Mainland Premier League Kariakoo derby which eventually ended 0-0 at New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Sunday.

In the fixture at New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, Young Africans will be content with the result after experiencing a fierce challenge from Steve Barker’s side.

 

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The Reds came out with purpose and intent against a Young Africans side weary from heavy fixture congestion. Simba looked more dangerous and energetic in the first half but Young Africans goalkeeper Djigui Diarra did well to produce a couple of saves and keep the match scoreless.

The Young Africans attack never really found their stride. Despite the presence of inform striker Depú, the absence of Ivorian playmaker Pacôme Zouzoua had a clear effect on the Citizens.

Simba started better than us

“It was a derby match, and an emotional match, Simba started better than us. We need time to adapt, in the last few matches opposite teams playing low block, so the boys were not able in the beginning to manage the situation,” Goncalves told Pan-Africa Football.

“We understand what we need to do, we finished the first half with a good command, we dominated the last five minutes. We started very well in the second half, we had a big attempt inside the box, unfortunately their goalkeeper did very well.

“It was a very exciting match, with emotions, sometimes we need to control our emotions, but in the end, it was a reasonable performance. We will continue with our way, our process, there is still a long journey to end the league.

“We anticipate a very big marathon, matches after matches, so we should be prepared for that and try to win every game as we protect our lead.”

Young Africans came to play for a draw

Speaking after the game, Simba coach Steve Barker said: “If you have the access to the game overall over the 90 minutes, I think we were clearly the better team, especially in the first half. I thought we dominated the tempo of the game, we created opportunities.

“It was only the last five minutes of the first half we lost control, and then again in the second half I thought we took control once again. It seems to me they came for a draw, so unfortunately, we were not able to get the goal to allow us to get the three points.”

He added: “If we continue to play against a team like Young Africans, I can only be proud again of the commitment of the players’ effort, you know we tried to win the game, we were desperate to close the gap. It is unfortunate we couldn’t win the game.”

With both clubs eliminated from CAF interclub competitions at the group stage, all attention will be on domestic fixtures with both teams in action again on Thursday. Young Africans will clash against Singida Black Stars while Simba host Coastal Union.