Shabana eyes Kenya Police scalp as KPL action resumes

Shabana vice chairman Wycliffe Ayienda has backed the club to register their first win since returning to the Kenyan Premier League when they host Kenya Police at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay on Saturday.

Shabana lost their opening home game 1-0 to KPL newbies Murang’a Seal and were held to a 1-1 draw by Talanta FC at the Nyayo Stadium.

“It was disappointing to lose the first game against Murang’a Seal. However, there was a marked improvement against Talanta. I’m confident the boys will beat Kenya Police on Saturday,” said Ayienda.

Ayienda spoke at Kisii Sports Club when he issued a registration certificate to the club’s G6 Titanic branch — the 10th branch to receive such a certificate.

He revealed that they have made some additions to the team with the arrival of immediate former AFC Leopards captain Eugine Mukangula.

Coach Sammy Okoth will also have defenders Hillary Wandera and Prince Ayieko — who joined from Kakamega Homeboyz and Nzoia Sugar respectively — at his disposal.

“I expect some of the new signings to play on Saturday because we have already registered them. I also expect at least two more new faces before the window closes on Friday,” said Ayienda.

On Saturday, the club played to a 0-0 draw with National Super League side Kisumu All Stars in a friendly match played at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu.

“It was a good game for us because it helped me identify some gaps which we are working on before we play Kenya Police on Saturday,” said coach Okoth.

Okoth was particularly impressed by youngster Ezekiel Omuri, who joined the Glamour Boys from the Michael Olunga Foundation (MOFA).

Additionally, Ayienda said so far 34 branches have been provisionally registered with 10 handed certificates complying with all the requirements.

“After we conclude the current face of registration, we shall now focus on registering bronze, platinum, gold and life members,” he noted.

He asked the fans to be patient with the technical bench and management as they continue to establish stability in the top flight.

“We can't win all our matches. It’s our first season in KPL after 17 years and losing one or two games is not a big deal. Our realistic target is a top 10 finish,” said Ayienda.