AFC Leopards coach addresses 'unruly' fans after disappointing Bandari loss

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FKFPL AFC Leopards coach addresses 'unruly' fans after disappointing Bandari loss

Festus Chuma 17:33 - 23.10.2023

Ingwe's new coach reacts to their 1-0 loss to Bandari, addressing the team's performance

After AFC Leopards' disappointing 1-0 loss to Bandari in Sunday's Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) clash, newly re-appointed head coach Tomas Trucha has spoken out in defense of his team and called for unity among fans and players.

Trucha, who took over from the sacked Tom Juma, faced a challenging debut match as Ingwe coach, with fans expressing their frustration by besieging the team bus seeking answers.

The defeat only added to the woes of AFC Leopards, who remained second-to-last in the league standings, level on four points with Sofapaka but the latter sit at the bottom due to goal difference.

In a heartfelt message to the club's passionate supporters, Trucha emphasized the need for love and support for the players, likening their relationship to that of parents with their children.

The gaffer acknowledged the difficulties the team had faced, both on and off the field, in the lead-up to the match and highlighted the players' commitment to adapting to his new coaching methods.

"I saw players working hard all week to be part of a team for the Mombasa trip. All the players are trying their best to absorb all the new information and instructions in the shortest time possible. 

"Every player used in the Bandari match fought for the team, and players who sat on the bench gave full support," he stated in a statement issued by the club.

Trucha expressed his disappointment at some fans who had verbally attacked and almost physically confronted their own players before and during the match, despite their efforts.

The Czech coach acknowledged the turmoil that had surrounded the club in the lead-up to the season, including last-minute player signings, a near-complete overhaul of the squad, the departure of the previous coach, and various other changes.

However, he emphasized the importance of mutual support and unity during these trying times.

"I came back to AFC because it's time to help, and I know we will push our players to win the games, but for now, we should all stay together and support each other. Negativity, threats, attacks, doubts, and insults will never help our Ingwe family come back to its glory days," he added.

The match against Bandari saw AFC Leopards concede the winning goal in the second half, as Derrick Nsibambi capitalised on a poor clearance from the Leopards' defense to fire home from close range.

It was a frustrating result for the team and its supporters, but Trucha remaines steadfast in his belief that with time and support, the club would bounce back.