Bandaris Hassan breathing fire ahead of Zoo clash

Bandari FC attacker Abadallah Hassan believes the club has more potential to fight for both local and continental glory this season, citing strategic squad reinforcement in the preseason.

Although pundits have questioned head coach Bernard Mwalala’s silence on bolstering his attack options, Abdallah still feels there is more competition in the squad that it was in the 2018/19 season.

After playing a key role in their 2-0 win over Tunisian side USB Guerdane on Saturday, Abdallah says there is growing competition for the first team slots, noting the advantage in it in a season of multiple competitions.

“Some of the new signings are now fitting in well, and you can see the hunger in them to play. Our coach has already told us there will be rotations in the squad because we have many matches to honour. We are ready for all that, but most importantly competition within the squad will only improve us,” said Abdallah.

Ahead of their Kenyan Premier League (KPL) clash at the Mbaraki Sports Club where they host Zoo Kericho on Wednesday, Abdallah further underlines CAF duties will not derail their quest for the domestic title.

“We have a lot of games coming up but I think we are ready. Some will be in the team (for the Zoo match) and some may be dropped (from the first team that played USB Guardane). With good balance we can still register good results,” he offered.

Besides the KPL gong in their target, the young attacker also revealed the dockers were keen to defend the FKF Shield this season.

Bandari could go top of the KPL table above KCB on goal difference if they beat Zoo on Wednesday.

The fixture was moved forward to accommodate Bandari’s appearance in the CAF Confederations tie against Guerdane on Saturday.

Bandari will need to be at their best to beat Zoo, having won only one in the last 10 matches in all competitions.

The last meeting was in May when Bandari comfortably beat Zoo 3-0 with Hasaan, William Wadri and Shaban Kenga on target.

The match will be preceded by awarding Ugandan William Wadri who was voted as the Fans Player of the Season.