Simba head coach Steve Barker has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the recent congested fixture schedule in the NBC Premier League, saying it has created major challenges for players.
Simba, who have 58 points and sit second in the title race behind rivals Yanga (60 points), are in a tight battle where any defeat or draw could prove costly in the championship race.
Within 66 days, Simba have played 16 matches, including three CRDB Cup fixtures, averaging one game every four days.
The coach said player fatigue has become a serious issue due to the tight schedule, with some players forced to feature despite carrying minor injuries in order to help the team maintain results.
Barker added that several players have been dealing with different injuries, while others have missed crucial end-of-season matches entirely.
In their last match against Dodoma Jiji, Simba were without defender Rushine De Reuck, while Clatous Chama finished the match limping. Seleman Mwalimu played while not fully fit, and David Kameta “Duchu” picked up a problem during the final training session before the game.
“Many players have minor injuries and significant fatigue. Duchu got injured in the final training session, Chama played with some pain, Mwalimu also had a minor issue, while Rushine was completely unavailable,” Barker added.
Barker now believes the upcoming two-week break will be crucial for recovery and preparation ahead of the final league matches and the cup semi-final.
“It is an important time for players to rest, recover, and get back in good condition. We still have big matches ahead,” he said.
In Simba’s remaining five league fixtures, the team will play three home matches and two away games.
Their schedule resumes on June 14 against Pamba Jiji at home, followed by an away fixture against Mbeya City on June 17. They will then face Mtibwa Sugar in Morogoro on June 24, return home to play Singida Black Stars on June 27, and finish the league campaign against KMC on June 30. They will also face Coastal Union in the CRDB Cup semi-final on June 20 in Arusha.
According to the schedule, Simba will average one match every three days once the FIFA break concludes.
