Shabana face Murang'a Seal test in top-of-the-table clash

Football Kenya Federation National Super League leaders Shabana will have their title credentials put to test when they face challengers Murang’a Seal at Gusii Stadium on Sunday.

This is expected to be the Glamour Boys' toughest match so far but coach Sammy Okoth is unfazed.

“I don’t want to put too much pressure on the boys but as I said earlier, we are taking all our remaining games as finals,” said Okoth.

Murang’a Seal caretaker coach Vincent Nyaberi, who took over from the sacked Ezekiel Akwana, expects a tough outing too.

“I don’t have much to say about the game against Shabana but it will not be an easy encounter since both teams are favourites to gain promotion to the Premier League,” said Nyaberi, a former Shabana defender and coach.

On Wednesday, Shabana beat Yatta-based Mully Children’s Family FC (MCF) 1-0 at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos while Murang’a Seal were held to a barren draw by Kibera Black Stars.  

Nyaberi said: “We scored what appeared like a clean goal but it was disallowed. Kibera employed time-wasting skills which spoiled the flow and momentum of the game."

He noted that he has not signed any player but is keen on making three signings.

“We don’t want to overhaul the squad in mid-season. We have a good team but we have to reinforce the midfield and maybe sign a striker. We are going for a maximum of three players,” Nyaberi said.

Shabana lead the NSL standings with 32 points, seven ahead of Seal, Gusii FC and fourth-placed Kibera Black Stars.

In other encounters scheduled for Sunday, Black Stars host Kisumu All Stars at Ligi Ndogo while Migori Youth will be at home to Darajani Gogo.

Gusii, who are on a three-game winless streak, will hope to return to winning ways on Monday when they host MCF at Gusii Stadium. Coastal Heroes welcome Silibwet Leones at Mbaraki Sports Club while Naivas face Mombasa Elites at Camp Toyoyo.

Mwatate United host Vihiga United at Wundanyi Stadium in Taita Taveta County.