Premier League side KCB FC is back in action this weekend in the Sportpesa League, facing Ulinzi Stars in an afternoon clash at the Kasarani Annex.
The bankers come into the fixture against a convincing 3-0 win over lower division side Chebaiywa FC in the FKF Cup and are hoping to extend their impressive form as they take on the law enforcers.
Speaking ahead of the fixture during an open training session at the KCB Leadership Centre, Head Coach Robert ‘Lion’ Matano said: “We have had a good run in our current fixtures, I am confident that the boys are ready to secure maximum points in this important duel. During the past week, we have trained exceptionally well, and the mood in the camp is amazing.”
After their impressive 1-0 victory over BIDCO United in their last league match, Matano’s charges moved up to sixth place in the current campaign, accumulating 40 points after 27 rounds.
The team will miss the services of forward Mathews ‘Messi’ Angal, full-back Gideon Were, and winger Patrick Odhiambo, who have all been sidelined after picking up injuries.
“The boys are high in spirits, winning thrice in a row in all competitions. We believe that with the plethora of talent at our disposal, we can beat any team. Our focus is to keep moving up the Premier League table. We know that we have seven matches left to play this season, so we will keep fighting until the end,” noted Captain Nashon Alembi.
Matano is expected to make minimal changes to the squad that started against Chebaiywa in the FKF Cup. Congolese short-stopper Arnold Matumele will start between the sticks, while Siraj Mohammed, Amatton Samunya, Fadhili Masoud, and Victor Okello will headline the heart of the defence.
In midfield, veteran Humphrey Mieni will start alongside Ronald Makati and Kelvin Etemesi. Francis Kahiro will lead the attack alongside wingers Bonface Omondi and December Kisaka.