Fireworks expected as Vihiga United host Nzoia in NSL derby

Fireworks are expected at the Mumias Sports Complex when Vihiga United host unbeaten leaders Nzoia United in a ‘Western Derby’ in this weekend’s highlight National Super League (NSL) clash.

Fifth-placed Vihiga who are 19 points behind their regional rivals have sworn to embarrass the leaders despite not winning their last three fixtures having been held midweek to a 1-1 draw by promotion rivals Kariobangi Sharks.

Speaking to Citizen Digital on Friday, Vihiga Secretary General Wycliffe Luvavu said his charges were fired up for the enticing encounter that is expected to attract fans from the football mad region.

“We are happy with the results although we didn’t perform well in Kericho. We are happy because we managed to draw with Kariobangi Sharks, you know it’s not a small team they have played even in the GOtv Shield and the performance is not bad.

“We are hoping that in the remaining matches we are going to do very well. Even this one of Nzoia we are not going to take it lightly, we know what we shall do,” the official added.

“We have intensified our training and the boys have a very high morale and you come and watch us humble Nzoia United in their home,”   Luvavu added.

Nzoia Chairman Yapets Mokua noted his side was not under pressure having opened a 13-point lead at the top with a 1-0 away victory over KCB on Wednesday as they stretched their tally to 70.

“For us a loss or a draw is not disastrous. We have zero pressure and when we are extremely calm we are dangerous and that is how we prepare our boys.

“Against KCB, we told them even if we lose we will be ahead with eight points and we won,” the former national champions’ boss told Citizen Digital.

In other weekend fixtures St Joseph’s FC (22) invite bottom placed Shabana FC who   changed their home ground from Awendo Green Stadium to Kericho Green Stadium after consultations between stakeholders of the two clubs.

WEEKEND FIXTURES

SATURDAY 

16:00 LIGI Ndogo vs. Modern Coast Rangers.

16:00 Zoo Kericho vs. Agrochemicals

16:00 Palos vs. Mayas FC

16:00 Nairobi Stima vs. KCB

16:00 Nzoia vs. Vihiga United.

SUNDAY 

15:00 Kariobangi Sharks vs. Wazito FC

16:00 Oserian vs. Bidco United

16:00 Nakuru Allstars vs. Police FC

16:15 St Joseph FC vs. FC Shabana

17:15 FC Talanta vs. Nakumatt