TABORA United head coach Anicet Kiazayidi has emphasized the need for patience as his team adapts to new additions in the second round of the Mainland Premier League.

The DR Congo native believes the recent string of draws is due to the process of integrating new players into the squad.

Kiazayidi (pictured) highlighted that while the new signings are crucial for squad rotation, they require time to adjust to the league's intensity and develop chemistry with their teammates.

His remarks come after Tabora United recorded three consecutive draws - 1-1 against KenGold, 0-0 against Fountain Gate, and another 1-1 result against Tanzania Prisons. This run follows their last victory, a 2-1 win over Kagera Sugar on February 11.

Despite the slow start to the second round, Kiazayidi remains optimistic about the team’s progress and has urged his players to maintain their competitive spirit in pursuit of a top-four finish.

“The second round of the Mainland Premier League has been challenging because many teams have strengthened their squads with quality signings,” he said. 

“Some of these players are still adapting, but overall, our performance has not been bad.”

Since his appointment on November 2, last year, after replacing Francis Kimanzi, Kiazayidi has managed 12 league matches, securing six wins, five draws, and only one defeat.

In those matches, Tabora defeated Mashujaa 1-0, beat Young Africans 3-1, won 2-0 against KMC, 2-1 against Azam FC, defeated Namungo FC 2-1, and then they beat Kagera Sugar 2-1 away.

The five drawn matches were a 2-2 draw against Singida Black Stars, a 1-1 draw against Coastal Union, a 1-1 draw against KenGold, a 0-0 draw against Fountain Gate, and a 1-1 draw against TZ Prisons. Their only loss was a 3-0 defeat to Simba at home.

In their latest 1-1 draw against Tanzania Prisons, an own goal by center-back Emmanuel Chigozie in the 67th minute gave Prisons the lead. However, Tabora United equalized in the 82nd minute through striker Emmanuel Mwanengo.

Kiazayidi remains confident that as his players build chemistry, they will continue to improve and compete for a top-four spot in the league standings.