SportPesa League side Kariobangi Sharks have found themselves in unfamiliar territory this season, battling to retain their top-flight status in what has turned out to be one of their toughest campaigns since earning promotion to the Kenyan Premier League.
Under the guidance of head coach William Muluya, the Sharks are currently fighting for survival and sit 15th on the SportPesa League table with 25 points, just three points above the relegation zone.
It has been a challenging season for the Nairobi-based club, who have struggled to find consistency in their performances. Out of 26 matches played so far, Kariobangi Sharks have managed only five wins, ten draws, and eleven losses.
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Their attacking struggles have been evident, with the team scoring just 18 goals while conceding 29, numbers that underline the difficulties they have faced throughout the campaign. For a club that has previously been known for its attacking football and youth development, this season has been a major test of resilience and character.
Despite the struggles, there have been a few bright spots in the squad. One of them is young star Humphrey Aroko, who has been one of the standout performers for the Sharks this season.
The promising youngster was crowned SportPesa League Player of the Month for January after scoring two goals and providing two assists, highlighting his importance to the team in a difficult period.
His performances have offered hope that the club’s youthful squad can rise to the occasion and steer the team away from relegation danger.
How Masud Juma is helping Kariobangi Sharks in the fight for SportPesa League survival
Kariobangi Sharks’ survival push has also received a timely boost with the return of former striker Masud Juma, who is currently back in the country and training with the team.
Juma previously enjoyed a successful stint with the Sharks, winning the 2017 SportPesa League Golden Boot with 17 goals before earning a move to Cape Town City in South Africa.
The experienced striker is currently attached to Lebanese Premier League side Nejmeh Sports Club but returned to Kenya to keep fit amid the political tensions in the Middle East caused by the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the USA, and Israel.
Head coach William Muluya believes Juma’s presence around the squad has been a major advantage, especially for the club’s young players who are still learning the demands of top-flight football.
“We have a young squad, a very young one, and having such experienced players train with us has been great because they pass a thing or two to the young players,” said Muluya.
Muluya further noted that Juma’s experience, both locally and internationally, has made him an inspiration within the team and has helped ease the pressure on the technical bench.
“Masud Juma was with us some time back and even won the Golden Boot while playing for this club. His experience, having played in different continents, has been valuable to us. He is an inspiration to the boys, and this makes my work easier,” Muluya concluded.
As the season enters its decisive stage, Kariobangi Sharks will be hoping that the blend of youthful energy and experienced guidance, including the influence of Masud Juma, will be enough to keep them afloat in the SportPesa League.
With only a few matches remaining, every point will be crucial as William Muluya’s side fights to secure their place in the top tier and avoid slipping into relegation.