Naivas FC head coach Ekvis Ayany believes they have what it takes to storm the Kenyan Premier League after securing a promotion playoff slot.
Navias beat promoted Nairobi United 3-0 in Saturday’s last match of the National Super League. They will play in the two-legged promotion playoff later this month.
Julius Ngugi, Emmanuel Lunalo and Mark Kesa scored for Naivas at Dandora Stadium.
Ayany hailed his charges, saying; “I want to thank our players for rising to the occasion by winning against a formidable Nairobi United side."
“We didn’t start the season well. We were second last on the table at one point.”
Ayany congratulated Nairobi United on their promotion to the Premier League and winning the NSL trophy.
Darajani Gogo beat Luanda Villa 1-0 to finish level on points with Naivas, but the retailers had a better goal difference.
Nairobi United and Administration Police Bomet secured automatic qualification slots.
Nairobi United coach Nicholas Muyoti attributed the team’s success to signing experienced players in the mid-season transfer window.
“It’s a good feeling winning the NSL. It has not been an easy journey. We signed players who have previously played in the KPL. That’s what helped us win the league,” said Muyoti.
United garnered 72 points with APS Bomet four adrift. Naivas and Darajani Gogo tied on 62.
APS Bomet got a walkover in their closing match after relegated SS Assad failed to show up for their game at Bomet Stadium.
Mombasa Stars were relegated after losing 1-0 to Samwest Blackboots.
To clinch maiden promotion
to the top tier, Nairobi United
garnered 72 points with APS Bomet
four adrift. Naivas and Darajani
Gogo tied on 62. Fortune Sacco
(58), Kibera Black Stars (55) and
Mofa (49) followed.
