SIMBA SC head coach Fadlu Davids has emphasized the importance of maintaining his squad’s fitness levels, opting against giving his players a break despite the postponement of their Premier League match against Dodoma Jiji FC.

The highly anticipated fixture, initially scheduled for last Saturday, was called off following an accident involving Dodoma Jiji’s team while traveling from Lindi to face Namungo FC earlier in the week.

With their next league encounter set for Wednesday against Namungo at Majaliwa Stadium in Ruangwa, Davids is determined to keep his players in top condition. 

He believes that any lapse in training could disrupt their rhythm, which is crucial as the league title race intensifies.

 Speaking about his decision, Davids stated that the Msimbazi Street-based side is currently in excellent form and he wants the team to maintain its momentum. He stressed that fitness is a key factor in their pursuit of success and giving the players time off could have negative consequences.

“This is a round of sleepless nights. The fitness of our players is the key to the results we get. Every player who gets a chance to play is fighting to ensure we achieve our goals,” said Davids.

The South African tactician underscored the importance of consistency, saying even a short break could force the team to restart their fitness work from scratch.

“If you give players a break, even for just two days, you have to start over. Maybe you give them a special training schedule, but that is not ideal, especially at this stage of the season. I believe that even if they leave their homes and train once a day, they will stay at their best,” he added.

With the title race heating up, Davids has maintained strict training sessions to ensure his squad remains physically sharp for the challenges ahead. 

He acknowledged that the competition in the league is fierce, with all teams fighting for points, whether to secure the championship, qualify for continental competitions, or avoid relegation.

“Our goal is to win every game. You don’t become a champion by winning four matches; we need to keep collecting points and also defend well,” he emphasized.

“The competition is tough every team wants good results. Some are aiming to stay in the league next season, while others are battling relegation. That’s why the physical fitness of our players is very important to keep up with the pace ahead of us,” he added.

Simba are currently in second place in the Premier League standings with 47 points from 18 matches, trailing their long-time rivals Young Africans SC (Yanga) by two points. 

Young Africans lead the table with 49 points from 19 matches. The upcoming match against Namungo is crucial for Simba’s title ambitions, as a win would keep them in close contention with their rivals.

In a boost to Simba’s squad, attacking midfielder Kibu Denis has returned to training after being sidelined for two weeks due to injury. His return is timely, as Simba prepare for their league clash against Namungo on February 19.

Kibu, who has been a key figure for the team, especially in the CAF Confederation Cup where he has already scored four goals, is expected to add more firepower to Simba’s attack. 

His availability provides Davids with more options in midfield as the club intensifies its push for the league title.

 Simba’s ambition remains clear to reclaim the Premier League trophy this season. With a well-maintained fitness regime, tactical discipline, and the return of key players like Kibu, Davids and his squad are determined to keep their momentum alive as they approach the crucial phase of the campaign.