Coach Pema, this is your first season coaching Transport United. How has the transition been for you, and what have been some of the key differences you’ve noticed compared to your previous coaching experiences?
Response: The transition has been remarkably smooth for me. Compared to last year, the quality of players and management here at Transport United is exceptional. The commitment and professionalism shown by everyone at the club have made my job much easier and more enjoyable.
Can you share some memorable moments or experiences from your time with Transport United so far? How have these moments shaped your perspective on the team and the league?
Response: One of the most memorable moments for me was our first home game. The support from the fans and the atmosphere in the stadium were incredible. Additionally, the quality of training, coaching, and facilities here at Transport United is top-notch, far superior to what I experienced in my earlier days. These experiences have reinforced my belief that we are part of a highly competitive and professional league.
Coach Pema, how would you assess the team’s overall performance in the first five matches of the BOB Premier League 2024? Are there any specific areas where you feel the team has excelled or needs improvement?
Response: The first four matches didn’t go as well as we hoped, but the last match went according to plan, and all the players gave their best. We excelled in teamwork and strategy in that game. Moving forward, we need to focus on supporting each other more consistently and maintaining our performance throughout all matches.
What tactical changes or strategies have you implemented in these matches, and how effective do you think they have been in achieving the team’s objectives?
Response: We have shifted our tactics to focus on maintaining more ball possession and executing quick counter-attacks rather than relying on long balls. The recent match against BFF Academy showed that these strategies are starting to pay off, as the players are beginning to understand and execute our game plan effectively.
Which players have particularly stood out to you in these early games, and how have they contributed to the team’s performance? Are there any emerging talents we should keep an eye on?
Response: Baby and U.D. have been standout performers, consistently applying what we practice in training. For emerging talents, keep an eye on Sonam and Magma. They have shown great potential and are making significant strides in their development.
What have been the biggest challenges the team has faced so far in the league, and how have you and the players worked together to overcome them?
Response: Communication and teamwork have been our biggest challenges. To address this, we have been focusing on daily guidance and having open dialogues with the players to ensure everyone is on the same page and working cohesively as a unit.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, what are your primary goals and expectations for the team? How do you plan to build on the foundation set in these initial matches to ensure continued success?
Response: My primary goals are to provide top-quality training, ensure strong performances in matches, and ultimately aim for the championship. I also hope to see more of our players make it to the national team. To achieve this, we will continue to encourage and foster teamwork, build on our current strategies, and maintain a high standard of training and preparation.
