Nkana legend Jericho Shinde has downplayed the impact of inconsistent results that Nkana has posted in the pre-season at the moment, insisting results at this stage “don’t tell the full story”.
Nkana were edged by rivals Mufulira Wanderers in the IRH Mopani Challenge Cup, which saw the Kitwe giants losing 2–0 on aggregate, much to the disappointment of their fans.
On August 16, the 13-time champions will start their league season with an away tie against Prison Leopards. They will be looking to have a positive start to life in what will be Mwenya Chipepo’s first full season.
But Shinde, who won multiple titles with Nkana during their golden era, has told BolaNews that results are not always the focus in preseason.
“You can’t read too much into preseason results. This is the time to test combinations, try new systems, and assess fitness levels,” Shinde told Bolanews. “Losing to Wanderers is painful for the fans, I understand that. It’s a derby. But it’s pre-season; we need to remain focused.”
The former midfielder also urged supporters to give coach Chipepo their full support as he continues to sharpen the team.
“The coach, the players need the support of the fans,” he said. “I believe our supporters; they are good at backing their teams so I am looking forward to seeing them continue on that trajectory.”
Nkana, who have not won the league title since 2020, are looking to end their league title drought.
The 13-time Zambian champions finished third last season in what was a remarkable achievement given their difficult start to the campaign.
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