Head Coach Eliya Kananji has described Creck Sporting’s seven-day stay in the Northern Region as a valuable period that has helped him better understand his players’ character and identify key areas for improvement ahead of the second round of the TNM Super League.

Kananji shared his thoughts after managed to collect just one point from a possible six, following a goalless draw against Chitipa United and a narrow 1-0 defeat to Karonga United on Saturday afternoon.

Creck Sporting was in the Northern Region to fulfill our final two fixtures of the first round, taking on Chitipa United in Chitipa and Karonga United at Karonga Stadium.

“The team needs a complete overhaul before the second round begins. There’s about 80% improvement in terms of coordination from the back, which is promising. What remains is building confidence and developing the ability to play out from the back.”

Addressing the team’s recent goal drought and lack of finishing edge, the coach emphasized the need of beefing up the front line sighting the team needs a top striker.

“Our struggles in finishing and securing wins show we may need a proven top striker up front.”

Kananji also voiced his concern over the match officiating, particularly in the defeat to Karonga United

“The officiating was below standard and had a big impact on the game.”

Despite the challenges, Kananji remains optimistic about the team’s growth, acknowledged noticeable progress and emphasized the lessons learnt moving ahead

“We’ve seen some progress in these two games. The lessons from this trip will help us grow stronger as we move into the second round.”