FOUNTAIN Gate FC's stellar performance in September, during which they claimed all three NBC Premier League awards for the month, has firmly positioned them as a rising force in Tanzanian football.

With a total of nine awards since the season kicked off, their positive momentum continues to turn heads.

Leading the charge is striker Selemani Mwalimu, who was named the Player of the Month for September after netting three crucial goals during that period. His consistent contributions have been instrumental to Fountain Gate’s success, helping them secure vital victories.

Coach Mohamed Muya (pictured) also earned recognition, taking home the Coach of the Month award for his tactical expertise and leadership. His strategic approach and motivational skills have played a key role in Fountain Gate's impressive league form, which has seen them rise from 15th to 2nd place in the standings.

Mwalimu, who scored three goals in 353 minutes of play during September, edged out his Fountain Gate teammate William Edgar and Azam FC's Feisal Salum in the final voting to claim the top player accolade. His goals were instrumental in Fountain Gate’s three wins and one draw, highlighting his importance to the team’s attacking line.

Meanwhile, Muya bested Azam FC's Rachid Taoussi and Singida Black Stars' Denis Kitambi to secure his Coach of the Month title. Under his guidance, Fountain Gate registered significant victories over Ken Gold, Tabora United, and Kagera Sugar, alongside a draw against Dodoma Jiji, strengthening their league position.

Additionally, the Tanzania Football Federation’s Awards Committee recognized Godwin Israel, the manager of Tanzanite Stadium, as the Best Stadium Manager for September. His exemplary work in managing stadium infrastructure and sporting events earned him this well-deserved accolade.

Coach Muya expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of both his coaching staff and players, crediting the entire team for Fountain Gate's recent achievements. He emphasized that these accolades were a reflection of the staff’s strategic planning and the players' ability to execute tactics on the field.

"I'm thrilled with the team’s collective effort, especially the coaching staff, who have been supportive of my ideas. Our early-season success is a testament to our growth and positive direction," Muya stated. 

He added: "These monthly awards are just a stepping stone. We must remain dedicated and work hard every day to achieve our lofty goals and secure a strong league position by next May."

Reflecting on their recent loss to Tanzania Prisons, where Fountain Gate let a two-goal lead slip, Muya admitted it was a setback but remains focused on the future. 

“We need to bounce back against KMC. They have a talented squad and a tactically astute coach. We must be cautious and well-prepared,” he concluded.

Fountain Gate will face a KMC side grappling with inconsistency this season. 

KMC’s recent form includes two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches, leaving them 8th in the league standings with a 2-2-3 record. Fountain Gate, in contrast, sit in 3rd place, with a 1-4-2 record overall and three wins, one loss, and one draw in their last five outings. 

Despite their recent setback, Fountain Gate hold the upper hand going into this clash and will be keen to capitalize on KMC's uneven performances to regain their winning momentum.