“We’re competing with big boys” – Mponda welcomes reality check after Silver loss

Masters FC coach Peter Mponda says last weekend’s 3-0 defeat to Silver Strikers has served as an important reality check for his side, insisting the result has highlighted the standards required in the FDH Bank Premiership.

Mponda believes the setback, which ended Masters FC’s perfect start to life in the top flight, has helped his players better understand the demands of competing against established sides in the league.

“We needed that [defeat] earlier in the season so that we would know that we are competing with big boys,” said Mponda.

Despite the loss, Mponda says the team has responded positively in training and remains focused on bouncing back quickly.

“Everyone is motivated to come back strong. Yes, we dropped points against Silver Strikers, but we needed that earlier so that we would know that we are competing with big boys. The boys have responded very well and they want to get back to winning ways,” he said.

Masters FC now turn their attention to Sunday’s home fixture against Dedza Dynamos at Bingu National Stadium, where Mponda expects a tough contest despite their opponents’ slow start to the season.

“It will be a very difficult game. They are still searching for their first win and first goal, and they will fight hard because both the players and coaches know they need results,” he said.

However, Mponda confirmed that the squad is facing several injury concerns ahead of the match, with key players struggling for fitness.

“Hadji Wali limped out and we are waiting for the doctor’s report. Damiano Kunje also limped out of training, and Precious Sambani is unlikely to be available for this game,” he said.

Despite the setbacks, Mponda remains confident that Masters FC has enough depth in the squad to cope with the absences as they aim to return to winning ways at home.