Fireworks are expected as defending champions Butali Warriors tackle rivals Kenya Police in today's Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) men's Premier League at the City Park Stadium.
Both sides won their previous match 3-0. The law enforcers drubbed Wazalendo while the sugar millers, who finished the 2019 season unbeaten, walloped Greensharks.
Both sides shared spoils in the 1-1 first leg draw before the then Kenneth Nyongesa-captained side won 2-1 in the reverse fixture in 2019. History will count for nothing as both sides fight for points.
Butali coach Joseph Osino said in as much as they respect their opponents, they are determined to bag maximum points. Butali have a fully fit squad and their forwards will no doubt trouble the Police backline.
"Butali and Police are the top two teams in the country. We respect them but our new crop of players are hungry for success. We are there to entertain because of the quality we possess. "
"We have a fully fit squad and we will take it like any other match."
His counterpart Patrick Mugambi admitted the match will be tough but promised to put their best foot forward.
"Both teams do not only have the experience but also what it takes to win the match. We know their attack is razor-sharp but we'll work to contain them.
"Govan Mbeki (ankle), Moses Bright (thigh), and Titus Kimutai (sickness) have not trained for the last three days. They will start from the bench."
Greensharks entertain Strathmore Gladiators. The Victor Osiche captained Greensharks, hope to return to winning ways after the Butali loss. Sharks beat Parkroad Badgers 3-1 previously but face a tricky Strathmore side blessed with pace and energy.
In the women's matches, record champions Blazers have a date with Strathmore Scorpions.
Scorpions have six points from two matches after recording wins against Sliders and Wolverines while Blazers have four.
Blazers' pair of Eleanor Chebet and Grace Bwire are likely to start in attack as experienced defenders Lucy Wangeci, Terry Juma and Flavia Mutiva start in the defence.
Elsewhere, Sliders will be looking for their first points this season when they square it out with Amira Sailors.
