Amavubi lacking in the final third
-Coach

By HAMZA NKUUTU

     Amavubi Stars head coach Michael Nees has admitted that his team is still inefficient, especially in the final third. The German expressed his concern after yesterday’s training in which the national team created numerous scoring chances but could not convert them into goals, losing 0-2 to Primus League threats Atraco FC at Amahoro Stadium.

     It was the second time in less than a week that the two sides trained together, with the first, last Saturday ending 0-0 at the same venue. The Amavubi’s midfield seemed to be the problem for Nees’ side, as it failed to match Sam Ssimbwa’s boys. They only recovered after recess.

“I am happy with the way the team is playing, you can see everyone is giving the best in terms of determination, however, I would like similar efforts into efficiency,” said Nees.

Despite his team’s persistent lack of cutting edge, especially in the midfield and attack for the third training game in a row, the German, expressed his confidence ahead of the Liberia.

He said: “I am not worried. I have seen what I want,” said he, in reference to way the rookie members of his squad have managed to adapt to life at the senior level.”

Again, in yesterday’s training session, Jannot Witakenge-the TP Mazembe gifted midfielder was missing. The St. Loi Lupopo skipper is reportedly carrying what Nees describes as a “not worrying” calf injury.

“Yes, Jannot has a slight calf injury, which I am 100 percent sure would be ok in time for the Liberia game. It’s not a worrying injury but we just don’t want to risk him.”

The team leaves tomorrow for a week-long training camp in Dakar, Senegal before flying out to Movrovia for their second Africa Nations Cup-Ghana 2008, Group Five qualifier against Liberia on October 8.