The much-awaited 2021/22 Kenya Women Premier League season kicks off this weekend with six matches lined up in various venues across the country.
Thika Queens host Kayole Starlets at Thika stadium in one of the four matches to be played on Saturday as they hope to get off to a flying start to their title defence.
Thika will be boosted by the fact that six of their players made the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association KEFWA 11 during the awards ceremony at Zetech University on Tuesday.
FKF Women's Cup champions Ulinzi Starlets have a date with newbies Kangemi Ladies. The Super Cup champions will miss the services of striker Neddy Atieno, who retired from the pitch to join the Ulinzi technical bench and is also part of the Football Kenya Federation Caretaker Committee.
The soldiers' captain Diana Shakava said Ulinzi will not underestimate their opponents — urging the players to go for early goals in order to get the job done by halftime.
"Kangemi has just joined the league but that does not mean we will underrate them because there's no weak team in this league. Remember we were newcomers last season and teams faced a Herculean task breaking us down. We therefore must approach the match with the seriousness it deserves," Shakava said.
"Teams could be struggling in the opening matches...yeah...but we are not putting that in our minds. We have to learn our opponents first, utilise any chance we get."
Goals are expected at Kitale ASK Grounds as Trans Nzoia Falcons ruffle feathers with Zetech Sparks. Both teams have reinforced their squads with quality signings, who are expected to hit the ground running.
Fireworks are also expected at the Mumias Complex as former champions Vihiga Queens welcome Nakuru Queens.
Nakuru held Vihiga to a 2-2 draw in the first leg last season before succumbing 2-1 loss in the reverse fixture. With the red hot duo of Tereza Engesha and Jentrix Shikangwa available for selection, it could be a torrid afternoon for the visitors. Cash-strapped Nakuru has seen a mass exodus of players.
2021 beaten finalists Gaspo women will fancy their chances against Kisumu All Starlets but will have to make do without their most influential midfielder Sheril Angachi, who joined Ulinzi.
The Western derby involving Wadadia and Bunyore Starlets, also at Mumias looks like a tricky tie for the hosts.
