Simba tame Mbao FC, finish third in SportPesa Cup

IN DAR ES SALAAM
Tanzanian giants Simba salvaged some pride by finishing third in the SportPesa Cup tournament after posting a 5-3 post match penalty win over hard-fighting Mbao FC at the National Stadium.

Emmanuel Okwi, Gyan Nicholas, Pascal Wawa, goalkeeper Deogratius Munishi and Zambian Cleotus Chama scored for the victors. Said Khamis, Vincent Phillipo and Ally Kombo scored for Mbao as Rateshi Koteka watched his shot blaze over Munishi's bar.

"It has been a good tournament for our team and myself. We have shown our worth and announced our arrival at this level, we didn’t lose a match and that's what I am proud of," said Mbao keeper Metacha Mnata.

Away from the lottery of penalties, Simba still had all the chances to win this match in regulation time.

Coach Patrick Aussems started with Meddie Kagere in attack and as always, the Rwandan import was awarded a host of chance to score by his teammates.

"Today was about getting our confidence back, playing with concentration, making our runs and creating several chances. Three games in seven days is not easy for any professional player so overall we didn’t win the tournament but I am satisfied," said Aussems.

At the half hour work, Shiza Kichuya fed through Kagere in a tight angle and the former Gor Mahia striker tried his luck, unleashing a right footed shot which skid of target off the upright.

Kagere also saw his header cleared off the line moments later, then Hassan Dilunga watched in disbelief as Mnata pulled a top notch save to parry his shot for a fruitless corner.

For their part, Mbao remained busy, enterprising and hardworking as usual. They created some chances with the standout being Said Khamis's free kick on 40th minute which was easily gathered by the Simba goallie.