Photo: Singida Black Stars
Anthony Tra Bi Tra’s first half goal was enough for Singida Black Stars to begin their NBC Mainland Premier League campaign with a 1-0 victory at Kinondoni MC on Tuesday.
The former ASEC Mimosas defender fired in from eight yards out after a successful set piece from the visitors at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam. A short corner kick ended with Congolese attacke Horso Malanga Mwaku cushioning a cross down for Tra Bi Tra, who was left unmarked for a simple finish past goalkeeper Hamisi Yassin.
With both clubs involved in the CECAFA Kagame Cup where Singida emerged with the trophy, their respective top flight campaigns began on the second matchday in a hard fought match. In a match that featured few clear chances, the inspired set piece allowed Singida to collect three points despite an underwhelming performance.
Black Stars, who have been spending large amounts of money to bring in foreign players and announce themselves as challengers to Tanzania’s top clubs, are off to a strong start after winning the CECAFA Kagame Cup. The club also began their CAF Confederation Cup with a positive result, winning 1-0 at Rwandan club Rayon Sports in the first leg of their qualifying stage clash. However, a potential obstacle lies ahead with rumors growing of coach Miguel Angel Gamondi’s imminent departure to Simba SC.
The top three finishers from last season which include Azam FC, Simba and champions Young Africans will begin their league fixtures over the next couple of days. Yanga will host Pamba Jiji on Wednesday before Azam FC close up the day at home against Mbeya City.
Simba will host Fountain Gate to complete the second round on Thursday after all three teams took part in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup over the weekend. The opening matchday of the league took place last week.
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