Gucha Stars players celebrate at Gusii Stadium/ANGWENYI GICHANAFourth-placed Naivas hope to return to winning ways when they host the Michael Olunga Foundation Academy (MOFA) in a National Super League encounter on Saturday.
Mofa, owned by Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga, are eighth on the log and head coach Charles Warinda expects a demanding contest against a Naivas side eager to bounce back.
Last weekend, Naivas were held to a goalless draw by newcomers Equity Bank, while Mofa edged Fortune Sacco 2-1.
Warinda said: “We have to work hard according to our game plan. We have to be aggressive and try to control the game from the first minute in all situations as much as possible.”
The match will be played at the Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT) in Ngong.
Despite Warinda, who took charge at the start of the season, said he is satisfied with the team’s progress.
“I’m impressed with how the players have adjusted to my demands for the sake of improving the club and creating a competitive environment,” he said.
He admitted, however, that the transition has been rough, particularly after an intense pre-season.
He stressed that the NSL is unforgiving, with teams battling for just three promotion slots to the SportPesa Premier League.
Warinda urged his players to maintain high standards in every fixture.
“So far, it’s my job to take away the pressure that may come from outside and keep the players improving and having fun. However, we must demand more and better every day,” he remarked.
In other Saturday fixtures, Talanta FC host newcomers Soy United at Ruaraka Grounds, while Mombasa United welcome giant-killers Equity Bank at Serani Sports Complex. Struggling Mwatate will be at home to Nairobi City Stars at Wundanyi Stadium, as Fortune Sacco entertain winless Kabati Youth in a Mount Kenya derby.
On Sunday, focus shifts to the Kibera derby at Vapor Grounds, Ngong’, where Kibera Black Stars face rivals Darajani Gogo in what promises to be a fiery encounter.
Nzoia Sugar, who suffered their first defeat last week to Sammy Okoth’s Gucha Stars, host Kisumu All Stars, fresh from their maiden win of the season after beating Mombasa United 2-1.
Leaders Migori Youth aim to stretch their advantage when they take on Vihiga United at Awendo Green Stadium, while 3K FC meet Gucha Stars at Moi Stadium, Embu. Mully Children’s Family (MCF) will be at home to struggling Luanda Villa at the MCF Complex in Ndalani, Machakos County.
