Peter Mponda has explained the decision behind changing Yankho Singo’s position during FCB Nyasa Big Bullets’ pre-season friendly against Kamuzu Barracks.
The People’s team faced Soldiers from Malawi Defence Force headquarters at the Champion Stadium in Mponera, Dowa on Sunday.
Singo was named in the starting line-up but played in the centre of defence as opposed to the central midfield.
Kenyan centre-half Clyde Senaji was his partner at the heart of defence, with Andrew Jovinala on the right and Henry Chiwaya on the left.
FCB Nyasa Big Bullets went on to lose the match 2-1 as Mike Mkwate’s deflected strike was not enough to prevent the defeat from Kamuzu Barracks who relied on John Mchema’s first half brace.
But, Mponda was especially thrilled with Singo’s impact throughout the game.
Discussing the Flames international role and position change after the match, he said: “”Everyone knows that Yankho Singo is a number 6 or number 8, that’s why iam saying I don’t have defence, iam trying to build a defence”
“Today we thought it wise that we should play him as a centre back, he really played very well, he commanded the defence and Iam very happy with his performance today” he added.
Singo partnered Senaji for just opening 14 minutes, before Yamikani Mologeni was introduced while Kamuzu Barracks were already 2-0 up.
The change saw Jovinala switch from the right back to the centreback and the duo combined well to prevent further goals.
Whether Yankho Singo’s switch to the centreback position is permanent, it will be seen when season begins.