Tough test for Escom Civo coach
Struggling Escom United, who are second from the bottom in Malawi’s Super League, this Saturday face Kamuzu Barracks at Civo Stadium as they fight relegation.
The game will be interesting as it marks the return of Alex Masanjala at Civo after he was fired two months ago.
On Sunday, Escom face Epac in another tricky fixture as both teams are fighting relegation.
Masanjala, however, said his focus is on making sure that Escom win the two games.
In an interview from Blantyre, Masanjala said it is important that they win the games to remain in the top-flight league.
“We have about nine games remaining. If we can win six of them, then we are safe, but we need to win the two games in Lilongwe for the team to regain confidence. We have players capable of winning the games,” said Masanjala.
He said from his observation at training during the week, he has confidence that the team can get results in Lilongwe.
“The team is okay, only they lacked an inspirational figure. I believe the mindset is positive ahead of our trip to Lilongwe,” he said.
Escom have 16 points, three above bottom-placed Kabwafu. Kamuzu Barracks are fifth from the bottom with 26 points whereas Epac are fourth from the bottom with 25 points.
Kamuzu Barracks coach Kenwood Nkhoma knows too well the expectations from his commanding officer Lt Colonel John Chaika who has made it clear to see the team remain in the league.
“We are not yet in the comfort zone in our fight against relegation. It is essential that we win every game we play. We are geared up to beat Escom although we know it will be a difficult game,” said Nkhoma.
Epac coach Abbas Makawa was confident that they can beat Escom, but is also cautious of not underrating them.
“Just like them, we are all in danger of relegation as such, it will be a tough match. They will want to win at all cost, but I have faith in my team and we will beat them. This will be one of our toughest fixtures in the season,” said Makawa.
Big Bullets, Silver Strikers and Red Lions have realistic chances of winning the league title this season. Two points separate Silver from leaders Blantyre United, but United have played three more games.
