Shabana will host Kariobangi Sharks at the Gusii Stadium on Sunday afternoon in a Sportpesa League Round 24 fixture, with kickoff scheduled for 2pm EAT.
While the hosts are fighting for a historic podium finish, the visitors are looking to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Shabana, are in the third place with 40 points from 23 matches. Despite their high standing, they enter this tie wounded following a heavy 5-1 defeat to AFC Leopards last weekend.
ALSO READ: AFC Leopards’ title chase suffers blow after Mathare United defeat
Before that collapse, the Kisii-based side had been the league’s form team, picking up four consecutive wins.
Kariobangi Sharks, currently sitting 14th on the log with 22 points, have become the league’s draw specialists, having shared the spoils in nearly half of their matches this season drawing 10 out of their 23 games.
Coach Perspective
Head Coach Peter Okidi says the heavy loss to Leopards could be a motivating factor to turn around results.
“The loss in the last match was a wake-up call. We cannot afford such defeats if we want to stay at the top. Returning to Gusii Stadium is a huge boost for us; the fans give the boys an extra push. We have to reward the fans who show up in their thousands every Matchday.”
On his part, William Muluya remains wary of the atmosphere in Kisii but insists his side is motivated by their unbeaten record against the hosts.
“Playing at Gusii is always a challenge because of the pressure from the stands, but my players enjoy these big stages. We have a good history against Shabana, and we intend to keep it that way. Our main issue has been finishing our chances. If we can be more ruthless in the final third, I am confident we can leave Kisii with maximum points.”
Head-to-Head and Form
Historically, Kariobangi Sharks have been Shabana’s bogey team. In their last five meetings, Shabana has failed to record a single victory, with the last three encounters ending in draws.
Recent Form:
- Shabana: L-W-W-W-W (12 points from last 15)
- Kariobangi Sharks:L-W-D-D-W (8 points from last 15)
Victory for Shabana will keep them firmly in the hunt for the runners-up spot, potentially closing the gap on the league leaders to seven points.
Conversely, a win for Kariobangi Sharks would see them jump into 11th place, effectively ending any fears of a relegation scrap.