YOUNG Africans SC pulled further away from NBC Premier League title rivals when they beat cross-town rivals Simba SC 2-1 in the league’s clash held in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.

Goals from Stephane Aziz Ki and Joseph Guede had Young Africans SC, alias Yanga, secure a league double over their long-time rivals for the first time since 2015/16 and now they have a seven-point lead at the summit.

Talking to the press after the game, head coach Miguel Gamondi hailed Yanga for the experience and commitment shown in edging over their title rivals.

He could not say that many of his players had played well, but he could not knock their effort.

The Argentinian noted: “It was a very tough game. Both teams gave everything. I think the commitment was fantastic. I am very proud of the performance of my team because sometimes we did not play well but there was a fighting spirit. I think they got a lot of experience from the CAF Champions League.”

“I have an impressive group of players because sometimes they did not do well but they had courage, commitment and this has been all over the year not only in this game,” Gamondi revealed.

“The way we are united and work as a team brought this result as well. Not just tactical but the unity, everybody playing, running.”

“They pushed us into the box in the opening two to three minutes but we reacted very well with calm and experience,” the tactician remarked.

“In the second half, maybe we should have killed the game but don’t forget we played against Simba, it is a very good team and we respect it a lot.”

He added: “Generally, I think we deserved to win and I want to dedicate this to 'Wananchi' and the elders because today was their day. There is nothing much to say more than this.”

Gamondi admitted the result was a big step forward in their march towards a third successive league title but insisted there is still a lot to play for in the remaining seven games.

The Argentinian revealed: “There is no guarantee in football. We still have seven games. We indeed have a big gap but we still need to play all games. My philosophy is going step by step.” 

“Today was a big step, we are sorted out but don’t forget on Tuesday we have a game on Tuesday  and another one on Saturday.”

The gaffer noted: “Every team wants to do something against us, so, it will be difficult. Of course, it was a great result for us.”