Coach Xavier confident Vihiga will avoid KPL relegation

Vihiga United assistant coach Francis Xavier is optimistic that the team will be nowhere near relegation at the end of the 2018 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) season in October.

Xavier said the team of young stars that is captained by veteran midfielder Patrick Okwemba have what it takes to finish inside the top ten.

Vihiga who had gone eight matches without a win have managed to beat Ulinzi Stars(1-0),Nzoia Sugar FC(3-1) and Wazito FC(2-1) to move from relegation zone to position 14 in the 18-team log.

“We are focused to finish among the top ten and equally determined to ensure that we not only finish above the relegation cut but also be in a better position possible.

“We are convinced that we have the capacity to collect maximum points in a number of matches awaiting us in the second round and as the table looks like,we are only eight points off 4th placed Sofapaka FC,” the former AFC Leopards Team Manager said.

The official added he is confident the team will enjoy better seasons ahead of them if the current unit stays together.

“We tap,nurture and expose young talents with examples of players like; Mike Sakwa, Chris Masinza, Benard Ochieng, Airo,Kavaji, Morphat Liuva,” Xaxier offered.

Vihiga earned top flight promotion last year after winning the second tier National Super League to become the fourth KPL side from the country’s Western region alongside AFC Leopards,Kakamega Homeboyz and Nzoia Sugar.

United travel to Awendo to play hosts Sony Sugar on Saturday.