An opening day triumph for Dedza against quadruple winners, FCB Nyasa Big Bullets, on Saturday would signify the team’s ability to compete against prominent teams in the league, claims Andrew Bunya, Head Coach of Dedza Dynamos Football Club.

The 2024 TNM Super League is set to commence on Saturday, with Dynamos playing at their home fortress, Dedza Stadium, hoping to kick off their third season in the elite league on a positive note.

“I’m confident that the boys are fully prepared for the season. They are physically and mentally prepared,” he said to the Club’s Media.

Replacing Gilbert Chirwa, who joined FOMO, Bunya acknowledged that Dedza Dynamos hadn’t performed well during the pre-season preparations, including a disappointing showing in the Sapitwa Bonanza held in Mulanje.

Dedza Dynamos solidified their place in the league last season with a memorable victory over Bullets, with Clement Nyondo netting an early goal. Dedza Stadium has proven to be a challenging venue for the People’s team, as they have failed to secure wins in their last four visits, succumbing to defeats against defunct Masters Security and Mafco FC in other fixtures.

However, Bunya cautioned his players against banking on Bullets’ struggles at Dedza and emphasized the need to approach the game with caution.

“It’s a game that we need to approach cautiously,” stated Bunya. “Despite our less than ideal preparations, I’ve seen positive aspects. We’ve been able to create chances, and we just need to convert those chances into goals.

“A victory against Bullets will provide us with momentum and demonstrate that we can compete at a high level.”

Dedza Stadium and the Dedza football faithful have been instrumental since Dedza Dynamos began using the venue as their home ground. The attendance figures for games are consistently impressive, and the fans are fervent in their support.

FCB Nyasa Big Bullets have remained unbeaten in their last 11 season-opening games. Their last defeat in an opening game came in 2012 when they suffered a 4-0 loss to Silver Strikers, with Asedi Ayami claiming a brace while Rodrick Gonani and Dave Moya scored a goal each.

Despite securing a historic quadruple last season, Bullets’ Assistant Coach, Michael Ngore, acknowledged that teams will come for their blood.

“Every game is important, and we are ready for the challenge. We understand that every team wants to stop us, and we need to raise our game,” he remarked.

“Dedza Stadium is one pitch where we struggle to secure maximum points, but every day presents a new opportunity, and we’ll give it our best shot.”