Shabana FC will look to close out the year on a high note on Saturday, December 21, when they face Mathare United at the Dandora Stadium at 4:00 PM.
Peter Okidi’s side enters the match in high spirits after securing three crucial points against title contenders KCB last weekend at the Gusii Stadium where they triumphed 2-0.
The Gusii-based team has been in excellent form, sitting in sixth place with 20 points after 14 league matches and a win in the upcoming fixture could propel them further up the standings.
While Shabana aims to extend their unbeaten run to five matches, Mathare United will be striving to snap a five-match winless streak.
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Their lastest victory came on November 27, when they narrowly defeated Nairobi City Stars 1-0.
The newly promoted side in the top tier had a strong start to the season but have since struggled, dropping from the top four to 13th place with 16 points, including four wins, four draws, and six losses.
Notably, Mathare have only managed three wins in their seven home matches this season, losing three times and drawing once.
This will be the first encounter between the two teams and both will be eager to make history in this inaugural meeting.
Peter Okidi, emphasized the importance of securing three points in every match as they are not just participants in the league, but serious contenders for the title.
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“Every game, we will make sure we take full points and remain grounded because we want something at the end.
We haven’t come to the league just to survive or participate; we are here to compete and challenge for the title. The best way to achieve that is by beating whoever is above you,” Okidi said after the victory over KCB.
On the other hand, Mathare United’s coach John Kamau is confident that his side will end the year on a high and secure the three points against Shabana. However, he does not view this match as anything extraordinary compared to others.
“The game against Shabana is crucial, and we need the three points to boost the team. But there is nothing more extraordinary about this match than any other game. I hope we will finish the year on a high note,” Kamau told the club media.
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Shabana will miss the services of Mathew Tegisi, who has left the club for a deal in Tanzania. However, Okidi is confident that his squad can step up and fill the void.
Mathare United, meanwhile, will have a full squad after missing key players Daniel Mukoko and Derick Anami in their recent matches, with both now returning to bolster the team.
Other Saturday fixtures include KCB, the league leaders, who will aim to extend their lead and rebound from the loss to Shabana as they host Mara Sugar at the Sportpesa Arena in Murang’a County at 3:00 PM.
Additionally, Bidco United will face Sofapaka at the Dandora Stadium, while the in-form Police FC takes on Kakamega Homeboyz at Machakos Stadium in the evening.
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