Shabana wary of Gusii FC in Kisii derby

The Kisii derby between promotion-chasing Shabana and archrivals Gusii will be the highlight of this weekend’s National Super League action.

The two sides collide at Gusii Stadium on Sunday as Shabana seek to return to the top of the log after being dislodged by Murang’a Seal on Sunday.

Murang’a Seal lead the NSL log with 61 points, one ahead of Shabana, who have two games in hand. Shabana and Gusii recorded mixed results in their last encounters.

Shabana edged Kibera Black Stars 1-0 while Gusii lost 2-0 to the Kibera-based Black Stars at Ligi Ndogo grounds.

Shabana head coach Sammy Okoth wants his charges to be wary of Gusii and warned against complacency.

“We are keen on a win against Gusii. Being a derby, we expect a tough match. We need to have extra energy and not make mistakes,” said Okoth, whose side lost 1-0 to Gusii in the reverse fixture.

“With six games to go, the players need to remain focused. We are not yet there. We don’t want to start celebrating now.”

Third-placed Migori Youth host Kibera Black Stars at Migori Stadium as they seek to keep tabs with the leading duo in the battle for Kenyan Premier League promotion.

Kisumu All Stars host Naivas FC at Moi Stadium in Kisumu while SS Assad welcome Vihiga United a Shamu grounds in Kwale County.

Mully Children’s Family (MCF) entertain Coastal Heroes at  Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

On Monday, Francis Xavier’s fourth-placed Mara Sugar will be in Bometfor a clash against relegation-threatened Silibwet.

Xavier believes that with six games to go, his side is still in the promotion mix.

“We still stand a chance. In football, anything can happen. We want to win all our remaining games,” said Xavier.

Kajiado FC travel to Taita Taveta for an encounter against Mwatate United at Wundanyi Stadium. Newly-appointed coach Evans Mafuta will be looking for his first win on the pitch.

Last weekend, Mwatate were awarded a walkover after Kisumu All Stars failed to show up for their game.