COASTAL Union defender Lameck Lawi has admitted that this has been a challenging season for both him and the team, but he remains determined to help the club secure its place in the league next season with improved performances.

Currently, Coastal Union sit ninth in the Mainland Premier League standings after 22 matches, recording five wins, nine draws, and eight losses. Defensively, they rank 10th in goals conceded, having let in 23 goals while accumulating 24 points.

Lawi (pictured), who was a transfer target for both Simba SC and Young Africans SC during the season's two transfer windows, acknowledged that the struggles have been collective rather than individual.

Last June, Simba and Coastal Union were involved in a transfer dispute over Lawi. Simba prematurely announced that they had signed him on a three-year deal, but Coastal Union accused them of violating league regulations. 

The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) ruled in favour of Coastal Union, blocking the move.

Following the failed transfer, Simba moved swiftly to sign Abdulrazak Hamza instead. With Lawi’s recent dip in form, it appears unlikely that Simba will renew their interest in him.

Reflecting on the season, Lawi admitted it has been difficult but emphasized the team’s determination to improve.

"This is truly a tough season. We haven't performed well since the league started, but we are not the kind of players who will allow Coastal Union to fall further. We are fighting to ensure we remain in the league and return stronger next season," Lawi said.

He also stressed that football is a team sport, and no single player can perform well without the collective effort of the squad.

"I can't be good alone in a squad of 11 players. I take responsibility for the mistakes made alongside my teammates. Every time we drop points, we analyze our performance and work on improving for the next matches. That’s the key to our recent better results," he said.

Lawi added that mistakes are a natural part of the game, and instead of blaming each other, the team remains focused on learning and improving.

"Now is not the time for pointing fingers. We are playing as a team, and everyone must perform their role without focusing on who made a mistake. 

After matches, we analyze our performances and correct errors to improve composure. The main goal is to see Coastal Union finish in a good position," he said.

Despite the challenges, Coastal Union finished fourth last season, securing a place in the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup. That marked their return to continental competition for the first time since their participation in the 1989 African Cup Winners’ Cup, where they were eliminated in the first round.

Domestically, they also competed in the Community Shield tournament earlier this season but suffered a 5-2 semi-final defeat to Azam FC before losing 1-0 to Simba SC in the third-place match.