As the Kenyan Premier League enters the final stretch, Bandari FC head coach John Barasa remains optimistic that the side can crack a maiden national title.
The Mombasa-based dockers will be clutching at straws in their final five encounters as they train sights on the silverware that has eluded their grip since their arrival on the top-flight stage a decade ago.
Bandari are third with 45 points, 12 adrift of leaders and defending champions Gor Mahia.
In an exclusive interview on Friday, Barasa expressed confidence in their aptitude to close in on K'Ogalo and run away with the title.
"From a casual point of view, the title looks out of everyone else's reach given the huge gap Gor has opened at the top. But I strongly believe we still stand a mathematical chance depending on how things turn out in the next few months," Barasa remarked.
"There is no guarantee Gor will win all their remaining matches. I also don't see why we should not win all our remaining matches. We still have eight more rounds left and there is still a huge possibility we might win the league."
Barasa's next task will be on Saturday against AFC Leopards, who are keen to wrap up the competition on a high.
"We respect Leopards a lot. They have displayed great character in the competition thus far and it would be risky to head to the match ill-prepared. We are taking this match with all the seriousness it deserves," Barasa stated.
Gor Mahia will seek to consolidate their position at the top when they face Murang’a Seal at St. Sebastian Park in Muranga.
KCB host Kariobangi Sharks at the Police Sacco Stadium in Nairobi as Sofapaka lock horns with Shabana at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.
Kakamega Homeboyz host Kenya Police at the Mumias Sports Complex as Muhoroni Youth face Bidco United at Muhoroni Stadium.
On Sunday, Posta Rangers have a date with Talanta at Machakos Stadium while Nairobi City Stars will tackle Ulinzi Stars at the same venue.
On Monday, Tusker will lock horns with Nzoia Sugar at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.
