Kayole Starlets relish delayed top-tier debut against champions Kenya Police Bullets

The fixture was postponed from the weekend to allow the Rising Starlets to host Ethiopia in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup return leg.

by CHARLENE MALWA

Sports24 September 2025 - 08:44

In Summary

Kayole Starlets earned promotion last season and are bracing for a baptism of fire against a Police side that won the league and featured in the CECAFA tournament.
“We were waiting to play in the Premier League. We worked hard and here we are. We will ensure we do our best and play CAF,” she said.

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Kayole Starlets attacking midfielder Drailer Sati believes unity and communication will be key when the newly promoted side make their Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Women’s Premier League debut against champions Kenya Police Bullets on October 4.

The much-anticipated fixture was postponed from the weekend to allow the Rising Starlets to host Ethiopia in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup return leg. The teams drew 1-1 in Addis Ababa.

“We talk to each other... from the keeper to the attacker. That is what will make it easy,” said Sati.

Kayole Starlets earned promotion last season and are bracing for a baptism of fire against a Police side that won the league and featured in the CECAFA tournament.

“We were waiting to play in the Premier League. We worked hard and here we are. We will ensure we do our best and play CAF,” she said.

“They are girls like us. We’ve played many of them before. We’ve also commanded respect.”

Despite Police’s pedigree, Sati insisted her side is mentally prepared.

“It’s not easy or hard. The ball rolls and you never know what happens next. Everything is possible,” she said.

Sati, who has played for Olympic Dagoreti, Kangemi, Gaspo, Makolanders, TZ Alliance and Kibera, hopes to be a key link in her new team’s midfield.

“As an attacking mid, I create chances and assist. I see myself as a playmaker who creates, scores and lifts the team.”

She welcomed the delay in the fixture, calling it a blessing in disguise.

“This is just our third week. It has helped us prepare. We’ve worked on speed, fitness and ball control,” she said.

Her goals for the season are bold but clear.

“I want to perform, be among the top scorers and help the team reach CAF (tournaments). Fans like players who perform well. They’ve waited for this promotion, and now we’re here,” she said.

Sati believes teamwork and mental strength will define their season.

“Our focus is working hard, listening to the coach and pushing ourselves. Even when things go wrong, we aim for a draw. Anything is better than losing at home—it will set the tone for the season.”