DEFENDING champions Young Africans SC (Yanga) were forced to settle for a goalless draw against Mbeya City in their Mainland Premier League clash at the Sokoine Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.

The result marked Young Africans’ first away trip of the new campaign, following their commanding 3-0 victory over Pamba Jiji FC in their season opener at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

 Although Young Africans created several opportunities, they were unable to break down a disciplined Mbeya City side. After the match, head coach Romain Folz (pictured) did not hide his frustration, pointing squarely at the condition of the playing surface as the decisive factor.

 “It’s not that much about the opponent. I think the most difficult part of the game is scoring, and the pitch does not help,” Folz told reporters. “The [Sokoine] pitch is very, very bad. It’s probably one of the worst pitches I’ve seen in years. 

 “When you get into the final stages of your sequence and you’re looking to give the final cross, the final pass, or even the shot, it’s very difficult. The way you have to prepare and the body balance needed to execute those actions are very much compromised by the surface.”

 The French tactician, who has emphasized a possession-based style since his arrival at Young Africans, explained that the poor conditions made it almost impossible for his side to impose their usual attacking rhythm. 

 “As much as we’re missing a lot of chances, it’s not that much about the quality that was missing,” he added, defending his players.The champions now turn their attention to continental football. After the upcoming FIFA international window, Young Africans will face Malawi’s Silver Strikers in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round. 

 The first leg will be staged in Lilongwe on October 18, with the return leg set for a week later in Dar es Salaam.The draw leaves Young Africans with four points from their opening two matches of the domestic season as they look to balance league duties with their continental ambitions.