Pater MpondaFCB Nyasa Big Bullets Head Coach Peter Mponda has lamented the People’s Team’s lack of quality and depth in defence after his charges suffered a 1-2 loss to Kamuzu Barracks in a friendly match at Champion Stadium in Mponela, Dowa District, on Sunday.
Interestingly, Bullets, under the guidance of Mponda, bolstered their defence with Chikumbutso Henderson from Mzuzu City Hammers, Andrew Jovinala from Blue Eagles and Blessings Joseph from Chitipa United.
This was after Bullets lost defenders Gomezgani Chirwa, Nickson Nyasulu and Collin Mujuru at the end of the 2024 season.
In a post match interview, Mponda promised to fix the defence before the start of the season on April 5.
“This is our first friendly match with a Super League side and the loss has exposed our weaknesses and we will fix this before the season starts,” Mponda said.
Mponda started Kenyan Clyde Senaji and midfielder Yankho Singo at central defence before withdrawing the former.
Newly signed Zambian left-back Dominic Musonda also featured in defence as he prepares to replace Alick Lungu, who looks destined to leave the club as a free agent.
Mponda took some positives from the match, promising to improve the side in readiness for the new season.
“This is just the start and we will build on this as we prepare for the new season. I was particularly impressed with how Yankho Singo performed in central defence. He delivered a solid display for us. Dominic Musonda also showed promise and, with more time, he will only get better.
“Overall, the match highlighted the areas where we need to improve, which will push us to sharpen up before the season begins,” Mponda said.
He also lauded the signing of Jovinala, Henderson and Joseph during the unveiling of the trio.
Meanwhile, football analyst John Mkisi has said he expects Bullets to suffer this season, especially in the first round, because they will play with a completely new defence.
“It will not be easy for them to keep clean sheets with a set of new defenders who have not played together,” Mkisi said.
Bullets next test matches will be in the Sapitwa 4 Bonanza, which will attract Mighty Wakawaka Tigers, Creck Sporting Club and Ekhaya.
The bonanza will take place at Mulanje Park Stadium from Saturday to Sunday.
