PRESSURE is mounting at Tanzania Prisons as the club’s hierarchy launches a formal assessment of the technical bench led by Kenyan tactician Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno, following a dismal eight-match winless run in the Mainland Premier League.

The crisis reached a breaking point on Tuesday at Sokoine Stadium, where Prisons suffered a humiliating 4–1 defeat to Coastal Union. The latest setback has deepened concerns over the team’s technical direction as the Mbeya-based side continues to slide down the league standings.

With the club’s board now scrutinising Otieno’s position, the coming fixtures are expected to be decisive in determining whether the former Gor Mahia coach can reverse the trend or whether a change in leadership will be required to avoid a relegation scrap.

Since taking charge, Otieno has overseen 12 matches, recording just two wins and three draws against seven defeats. The poor run has left Tanzania Prisons languishing in 15th place with only nine points.

Club chief executive officer Godfrey Madegwa confirmed that discussions are ongoing, although no final decision has been reached.

“Results govern a coach’s job. When the scoreboard does not reflect our objectives, explanations are required. If those answers are not convincing, the way forward becomes clear. However, as a structured institution, we do not act on impulse,” Madegwa said.

“We are following our internal procedures and consulting with headquarters. Once a collective agreement is reached regarding the coach’s future, we will communicate our official position transparently.”

Madegwa also acknowledged the difficult period the team is enduring and stressed the importance of supporting the players mentally and psychologically to prevent morale from collapsing during the slump.

On the pitch, Tanzania Prisons’ struggles have been stark. In the 2025/26 Premier League season they have scored just four goals in 12 matches - the lowest tally in the division - while conceding 12 for a goal difference of minus eight.

Their biggest weakness has been a severe lack of attacking consistency and firepower. The team has relied heavily on a few individuals to create chances and often looks toothless once those players are effectively neutralised.

This inability to find the net has repeatedly wasted otherwise disciplined defensive performances, resulting in narrow defeats and frustrating draws in matches where Prisons were competitive.

Tactically, Prisons have also suffered from instability and a tendency to crumble under sustained pressure. While they occasionally show resilience, their defensive displays remain a mixed bag, with lapses in concentration regularly punished by opponents.

To climb out of the relegation zone, Tanzania Prisons must urgently solve their scoring crisis and establish a more reliable attacking pattern capable of disrupting opponents and easing the burden on the back line.