Barker Sets Sights On First Simba Trophy

Simba Head Coach Steve Barker. Photo: X/@SimbaSCTanzania

Simba S.C head coach Steve Barker has gone in search of his first trophy with his new team set to compete in the upcoming Union Cup.

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The Union Cup is an eight-team tournament featuring four sides from the Tanzanian Premier League and four from Zanzibar to commemorate the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

Barker’s side will face Zanzibar side Mafunzo on Thursday evening at the New Amaan Complex, in the first round of the tournament.

The South African said the Cup comes as a welcome distraction from the busy domestic schedule as he sets his sights on his first honours with the Reds of Msimbazi.

“We have several objectives,” Barker stated. “First and foremost, we want to win the tournament. It’s also a good opportunity to take a break from league matches and fully focus on the tournament,” he continued.

The Cup also allows the former Stellenbosch coach to make full use of his squad and give chances to some players who have struggled for game time this season.

“At the same time, it allows us to rotate the squad, give opportunities to players who haven’t had many minutes, and also provide a platform for some of our younger players to showcase their talent,” the 58-year-old stated.

“It’s part of our preparation for upcoming league matches, and as I mentioned, it’s a chance to give younger players valuable game time. We have clear objectives we want to achieve, but ultimately, as Simba Sports Club, our mentality is to win every match we play. We are going there intending to bring the trophy to Dar es Salaam,” he concluded.

Barker will be hoping to join rivals Yanga SC in the next round after they beat Muembe Makumbi City 4-0 on Tuesday evening.

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A win would also extend Barker’s winning streak to 17 games in all competitions, having last tasted defeat in January to Esperance in the CAF Champions League.

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