By MICHAEL MIYOBA
RED Arrows coach Chisi Mbewe says he is happy with the progress made by the Airmen as they prepare for the new football season kicking off next weekend with a curtain raiser, the Carling Black Label Samuel “Zoom” Ndlovu Charity Shield involving Power Dynamos and Forest Rangers.
Speaking after winning the four-team tournament in Ndola, Mbewe said it presented Arrows an insight on where they need to improve before the new season begins.
Mbewe said the Airmen, who will launch the new season with a clash against Nkana FC will need to improve on their defence with another friendly game before meeting Nkana on August 19.
“In all the games we played, we have conceded goals. We need to go back and work on the defence so that we stop conceding goals. On scoring we managed to score in all the games which is a good sign and on that we also have to improve to be ready,” Mbewe said.
“Fitness levels so far so good but we are not yet there. What is remaining is the match fitness. We might organise another friendly before starting the season,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zesco assistant coach Tenant Chilumba said he was happy with the fitness levels of the players after the four-team tournament.
Zesco finished the tournament on second position with five points from one win and two draws while Arrows dominated the tournament with victories over Zanaco and Green Eagles before the 1-1 stalemate against Zesco on the final day of the tournament.
“We have seen something and we are happy with the level of fitness of our team. It is not easy to play three games in three days; the level of fitness is excellent and now we just have to plan for next week’s game which will be a crucial game. We will now concentrate on technical things,” Chilumba said.
Zesco United will kick off the new season with a clash against Napsa Stars on August 19.
