Leaders Gor Mahia, who hold a 10-point gap, are set to face Bandari FC for the FKF Kenya Premier League (KPL) on Saturday at Mbaraki Sports Club.
Bandari FC coach John Baraza has confidently declared that his team is fully prepared to cause an upset against Defending Champions, Gor Mahia. Their previous victory over Gor was in 2018 at Mbaraki Stadium where they secured a 2-1 win.
“Preparation has been going smoothly. Since our return from Machakos, where we secured a victory against Shabana, we’ve had a week to prepare ourselves. I can confidently say that the team morale is excellent, and we’re poised to surprise our opponents,” Baraza said.
Baraza thanked their fans for their unwavering support that they have received so far this season, adding that they expect them to flock the stadium more than usual on Saturday to boost the team spirit and hand Gor their second defeat of the season.
“If you look at Gor, their players’ quality matches with ours but what sets them apart is the tremendous support from their fans. Their turnout has been excellent and their vocal support during matches undoubtedly boosts their performance. We urge our fans to show up in greater numbers to support us and we promise not to disappoint them,” stated Baraza.
The tactician confirmed that the players who will miss the upcoming match are the long-term injured players who have already begun light training; Siraj Muhammad, Beja Nyamawi and Sheriff Majabe while Derrick Nsibambi recently underwent shoulder surgery and is expected to return after one and a half months.
The coach believes that winning the match against the league leader will significantly boost their opportunity to reduce the gap in points between them and keep their dream of winning their first KPL title alive.
In the last five KPL matches between the two teams, Gor Mahia emerged victorious in three consecutive games, while the remaining two matches ended in draws.
Currently, Gor Mahia tops the league table after playing 23 games getting 50 points while Bandari FC sits in third place, having also played 23 games and securing 40 points.
By Abdulrahman Allui and Mauta Jackie
