AS training resumes for their upcoming clash against Singida Black Stars, Fountain Gate FC head coach Robert Matano is focusing on strengthening his team's defense and improving their attacking efficiency.

Fresh off back-to-back victories against KMC and Tanzania Prisons, Fountain Gate are eager to extend their winning streak when they face Singida Black Stars in Singida on April 2. 

However, Matano acknowledges the need to address two major weaknesses - defensive fragility and scoring inconsistency.

In 23 league matches this season, Fountain Gate have conceded 40 goals, averaging 1.7 goals per game, making them one of the two weakest defensive teams in the league alongside KenGold. 

Offensively, they have scored 28 goals, averaging 1.2 goals per game, highlighting their struggles in front of goal.

Determined to make improvements, Matano has been adjusting his tactics to address these issues. He admitted that both areas require significant work, and he has been making frequent lineup changes in an effort to stabilize the team.

“These are challenges that can’t be fixed overnight. That’s why we’re back on the training ground, working to minimize our weaknesses, if not eliminate them entirely. I’m also gradually implementing my system and adapting it to the players we have,” Matano said.

Despite these challenges, Matano sees promise in the midfield, praising its ability to link up play and create chances for the forwards. 

He believes that if the team can maintain this positive aspect while improving their defensive and attacking balance, they will achieve better results.

“Inconsistencies have been evident in our past matches. We concede too easily, struggle to convert chances, and find it difficult to secure comfortable wins. We must establish a better balance between our defensive and offensive play,” he added.

Matano, who took over as head coach on January 10, 2025, after leaving Sofapaka in Kenya, has managed Fountain Gate in seven Tanzania Mainland Premier League matches, recording two wins, two draws, and three losses.

His predecessor, Mohamed Muya, oversaw 16 league matches, securing six wins, two draws, and eight losses.

Overall, Fountain Gate have played 23 matches this season, winning eight, drawing four, and losing eleven. They currently sit in seventh place with 28 points.