AFC Leopards coach Tomas Trucha has urged the club’s supporters to temper their expectations regarding the team’s chances of winning the league title. Despite the fans’ long wait since 1998, Trucha feels the team still has a way to go before it can be considered serious title contenders.
Trucha acknowledges that while the team is competitive, significant internal improvements are needed for sustained success. He emphasized that challenges within and around the club must be addressed to create an environment conducive to winning the league. The coach underlined the importance of professionalism and commitment from all stakeholders, stating that every individual in the club must fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
At the start of the season, Trucha had already indicated that the team was not yet ready for a title challenge. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s potential, highlighting the competitiveness of the league and the opportunity to capitalize on other teams’ inconsistencies. He pointed out that although Leopards are six points behind current leaders KCB, the season is still young, and a turnaround is possible.
The coach believes the upcoming Mashemeji derby against Gor Mahia is a crucial fixture. Trucha sees the match as an opportunity to boost confidence and prove that the team can compete at the highest level. A positive result could significantly improve their standing and provide a foundation for a stronger title push.
Leopards currently sit fifth on the league table with 11 points, trailing KCB by six points. However, their recent form has been less than encouraging, with the team picking up only two points from their last four matches. Trucha attributes this slump to individual errors and a lack of clinical finishing, issues he hopes to address following the international break.
Analyzing the team’s performance, Trucha observed that defensive mistakes have been costly, often leading to dropped points. He emphasized the need for greater focus and discipline, especially in defense, where even minor errors can have significant consequences. He is optimistic that addressing these defensive lapses will stabilize the team and improve results.
Another area of concern for the coach is the team’s attacking efficiency. Despite creating numerous chances in recent matches, Leopards have struggled to convert opportunities into goals. Trucha has prioritized improving the team’s finishing, particularly as high-stakes matches like the derby provide fewer scoring opportunities. He stressed the importance of making every chance count, especially in tight encounters.
Despite the challenges, Trucha remains grateful for the unwavering support of the club’s fans. He acknowledged their loyalty and patience, expressing his desire to reward them with improved performances and a stronger fight for the title. The coach is determined to steer the team out of their current poor form and rekindle hope for a successful season.
The coach’s message to supporters is clear: while there is room for optimism, the journey to reclaiming the league title requires time, effort, and collective dedication. With improvements in key areas and a commitment to minimizing mistakes, Trucha believes AFC Leopards can overcome their recent struggles and make meaningful progress. The Mashemeji derby presents an ideal stage to demonstrate their resilience and readiness to fight for glory.
