By Petro Mkandawire

Blantyre, February 9, Mana: Lilongwe based Kamuzu Barracks FC conducted a five-day team trials after a review of the team’s general performance and contribution to the 2023 season which fell short of expectations.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Friday, Kamuzu Barracks FC Media Officer, Francis Banda, said the trials which started on Monday to Friday this week, were held on a high note with about 130 players reporting.

Out of the players that reported for the trials, 33 players were selected for intensive trials to beef up KB reserve and the main team.

“We don’t have a specific number of how much we want but we want to have players that can make both reserve and main team,” said Banda.

In preparation for the 2024 football season, KB will commence its training on February 12.

Banda said the club is looking forward to compete in all campaigns as they have long-term and short-term plans as well as primary and secondary goals.

He added that KB executive committee has given the technical panel targets to reach top four in TNM Super League and at least reach finals in cup games.

Chimwemwe Maganga, who took part in the trials, was excited to be accorded an opportunity to participate in the trials describing it as “a great experience”.

He said this has provided a learning ground and looked forward to advance his football skills if given a chance to remain at KB.

“I learned all about life with a ball at my feet during these trials. I have realised that football is a game of mistakes so I have to fight hard to reach my dreams. I hope I will make it since the more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning the competition,” said Magasa.

Chairperson for Ngwangwa Wan Football Zone, Vivah Mandala, said giving the upcoming footballers a chance is one way of improving football in the country as it may help build confidence in the players.

He expressed hope that the trials will help improve performance of the team due to combination of new players and experienced ones.

“Young players need to be exposed to top teams so that they should develop their career. They should be encouraged to try their skills without fear of failure. Players who participated in the trials should strive hard for success,” said Mandala.