THE coaches of the bottom four teams in the Tanzanian Premier League face an uphill battle as they prepare for two critical tests that could determine their survival or relegation by the end of the season.

The primary challenges for these teams - Tanzania Prisons (13th), Pamba Jiji FC (14th), Kagera Sugar, and KenGold - are their inability to convert scoring opportunities and their poor performances in away matches.

A lack of attacking potency has been a major factor in these teams' struggles this season.

Tanzania Prisons and Pamba Jiji FC have each scored only seven goals in 16 matches, averaging a meager 0.4 goals per game. Both teams made significant moves during the recent transfer window to bolster their attacks.

Pamba Jiji signed seven attacking players, while Tanzania Prisons brought in three, signalling their intent to improve their offensive output.

Kagera Sugar have fared slightly better with 10 goals in 15 matches (0.7 goals per game) and added an attacking midfielder during the transfer window.

KenGold, with 11 goals in 11 matches (also 0.7 goals per game), made aggressive moves by signing seven attacking players. Their coach, Vladislav Heric (pictured), will be hoping the new additions can help turn around their fortunes.

Away-game performances have been another critical issue for these teams, particularly KenGold, who have failed to collect a single point in nine away matches.

Kagera Sugar have managed only two points in seven away games, while Tanzania Prisons and Pamba Jiji FC have earned four and five points, respectively, in their away fixtures.

KenGold coach Heric faces a daunting task of improving his team’s performance away from home, while coaches Amani Josiah (Tanzania Prisons) and Felix Minziro (Pamba Jiji FC) must also address their teams' struggles on the road.

Tanzania Prisons coach Josiah remains optimistic about his team’s chances of recovery.

"I've told my players to forget the past and fight in the matches ahead because those we've lost are gone," said Josiah.

Pamba Jiji FC coach Felix Minziro is targeting a strong start when the league resumes.

"We need to collect many points in the first five matches when the league returns. Those will put us in a good position to move up the standings," Minziro said.

As the league restarts, all four teams will need to capitalize on their recent signings and address their weaknesses in attack and away matches.

The survival of these teams depends on their ability to perform under pressure and secure vital points in the coming weeks.

With their positions on the table at stake, the next phase of the league will be critical for Tanzania Prisons, Pamba Jiji FC, Kagera Sugar, and KenGold as they battle to stay in the top flight.