Jaguars coach trusts young squad to come of age at Africa Cup for Club Champions

© WESTERN JAGUARS

HOCKEY Jaguars coach trusts young squad to come of age at Africa Cup for Club Champions

Abigael Wafula • 06:59 - 14.02.2023

The Western Jaguars are competing in the championships for the first time and they will be looking to gain experience and also perform well.

Western Jaguars coach Michael Malungu has said getting a nod to debut at the ongoing Africa Cup for Club Champions is a historical moment for the team and he believes it is a sign of better things to come.

Speaking after their 2-1 defeat to Butali Sugar Warriors on Monday, February 13, Malungu said they are a young team and they want to use the chance to their advantage and grow.

“We need to realise that this is our first time and we should use this chance to gain experience. We are here to learn but also compete. Getting this opportunity will help us grow because we still have a long way to go…this is just the beginning of the journey,” Malungu said.

Malungu came to the defense of his team saying first times are always crucial and they might have had doubts. However, he added that with the first game being done and dusted, they need to focus on their next and post better results.

He also noted that he did not expect to start on a negative note adding that they conceded too early. “We had moments to get back into the game and utilise our chances but we did not,” he added.

As a young team, Jaguars were banking on their physical fitness to post better a result but unfortunately, that did not bear fruits. “Being a young team is an advantage because the boys are physically fit. We now have to use that to yield results,” he said.

© WESTERN JAGUARS

Meanwhile, captain Ivan Ludiali expressed his disappointment towards losing their opening match but promised a better show going forward.

“Of course, we are disappointed with the loss. We shall try and refocus tomorrow,” he said, adding that competing in the international championship has a great impact on the young team.

Going forward, Ludiali said they will be looking to use the championship as a build up for the upcoming season. “While at it, we also want to make an impact. This is a nice challenge for us,” he concluded.

Western Jaguars today, February 14, clash with Uganda’s Weatherhead in the evening.

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