Bungoma Queens' head coach Robert Machio expressed satisfaction with his team's ever-growing maturity in the Kenya Women's Premier League.
Despite a challenging start with a draw against Kibera Soccer Ladies and subsequent losses to Police Bullets (5-1) and Gaspo Women (1-0) in away matches in Nairobi, Machio commended the resilience of his squad.
Reflecting on the earlier fixtures, Machio acknowledged a lack of experience but noted a remarkable transformation in his players after securing victories against Bunyore Starlets (3-2) and Zetech Sparks (2-1).
"Earlier on, I felt like my girls did not have enough experience to compete in this very competitive league. However, after beating Bunyore and Sparks, I saw a whole different team. One that has matured, has had a boost of confidence, and thrives on teamwork,'' said Machio.
Queens are currently third with 10 points having played six games. They trail Ulinzi Starlets by a point and are six points behind league leaders Vihiga Queens.
Machio highlighted the impressive speed and endurance displayed by his players, emphasizing their technical capability.
''The girls proved their technical abilities. They are fast when they play and now they know how to deal with teams that give them trouble. They showed that against Bunyore and earned hard-fought three points,'' he added.
He also acknowledged the significance of the wins against Zetech and Bunyore, terming them a wake-up call and a confidence boost for his side.
"Coming into the league, we had this ambition of taking three points from teams like Sparks because they have been in the league for some time, and beating them meant we are on the right track. That makes me optimistic about the future," Machio said.
Pointing out key contributors to the team's recent success, Machio singled out Noel Amutata and Juliet Mukhekhe.
Additionally, the inclusion of notable players such as Linda Ruchu from Oserian, and the Nakuru City Queens trio of Deborah Barasa, Ruth Nekesa, and Miriam Chelagat has strengthened the squad.
However, Machio acknowledged that work remains to be done, and his charges can not afford to relax.
"There are still areas we need to work on. The attack on the team is giving me a headache. The chances we get are many, but when it comes to converting, we fail. That's something we're working hard on in training," Machio said.
''Our defenCe also needs work. We are conceding way too many goals and struggling to keep clean sheets. We are working on a plan for the defenders to stop the opponents and I hope it will work out in the next games," he concluded.
