FIRED UP! READY FOR SECOND ROUND – SKIPPER

CAPTAIN Luka Banda says NAPSA Stars will aim to do better in the second round of the 2021/20222 MTN Super League Season after recording a poor run of results in the first round.

NAPSA Stars are set for their first match of the second round to be played this Saturday against Red Arrows FC.

In the first half of the season, the Pensioners went seven matches without recording a win, a situation that saw the Perry Mutapa coached side miss out on the prestigious ABSA Cup competition which they currently hold a title as champions.

Banda said the poor performance was just a rough phase the team was going through and added that things will change in the second round.

The Pensioners concluded their first round of the season with a massive 4-1 win over Prison Leopards that sent them to 10th position on the log with 21 points from the 17 games played. This is after recording five wins, six draws and six losses.

The player has had a decent individual season, featuring in 15 games and only being excused from two owing to a National team call up.

 “Just like we were told by the coach, we need self-training during this break because as a player, you cannot stay for long without training. You need to train at least once in a while and go to the gym in order to keep fit.”

Commenting on the failure to qualify and defend the ABSA Cup, Banda expressed disappointment adding that the team wanted to play the tournament and retain the title.

The Captain said the focus has now shifted to working hard so as to record positive results in the league.

Asked about his expectations from the remaining games, Banda added that he expects the team to work together with one mindset of getting good results in the last 17 matches left.

NAPSA Stars will open their second round on the 7th of January 2023 when they host Red Arrows at the National Heroes Stadium in a week 18 encounter.

“My last words to the fans are that they should continue showing us the love and support they give us during the home and away games.” Banda said.