Barker challenges Simba SC to produce top display against Mashujaa

Simba SC head coach Steve Barker has said their target this season is to ensure they win the Tanzania Mainland Premier League title as they prepare to face Mashujaa FC in their rescheduled fixture on Thursday.

The Msimbazi Reds will return to domestic action following their CAF Champions League defeat against Espérance Sportive de Tunis. During the CAF fixture played away, Simba lost 1-0 on Saturday.

Simba objective is to challenge for title

“We are really excited and looking forward to the game, and I think in the context of the league, it is very obvious, we have to make sure we don’t lose further ground,” Barker told Pan-Africa Football ahead of the fixture.

“Our main objective for the season is to challenge to win the league, so, it is important for us that we pick maximum points against Mashujaa, but we also do know as coach and players that we don’t take any opposition lightly.

“We respect all our opponents that we play against, and we understand that for us to get maximum points, we have to play to our full potential. The mood in camp is very good; the players are showing high levels of commitment.

He added: “There have been a number of changes to the team, players leaving, and some players coming in. I think we have now settled, and the players that have joined us recently have found their feet, and everybody is looking to put on a big performance.

“There has been good progression in the team, in many areas, not only on the field but off the field. This match gives us the opportunity to start producing performances that get us maximum points.”

Simba are currently lying sixth on the league table with 13 points from six matches. They won four matches, drew one, and lost one.