Resilient Mathare out to maintain KPL run at Posta

Mathare United head coach Francis Kimanzi says confidence, teamwork and resilience have been key in pushing the team to the summit of the Kenya Premier League (KPL) table.

Kimanzi, who became the latest SJAK/Fidelity Insurance Coach of the month on Wednesday, paid tribute to his players for their constant desire to improve and says they will only get better.

The Slum Boys have made a brilliant start to their 2018 campaign, winning seven of their opening 10 matches with their total of 23 points putting them one clear of champions Gor Mahia FC.

“We have been amazed with the developments and the improvement in the team right now when we compare it to last year. We have tackled the matches one by one and through it , the players have built more confidence and this has enabled them have fun in the team,” the Dutch-trained tactician said.

With second-placed Gor absent from the weekend action, Mathare could extend their lead at the top with a fifth straight win when they travel to Posta Rangers on Sunday.

It is a tricky fixture for Kimanzi’s with Posta keen to return to winning ways following their 1-0 shock defeat to strugglers Zoo Kericho FC in the previous round.

In other weekend matches, entertain cash-strapped Nakumatt FC while AFC Leopards will entertain Zoo at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

Sofapaka FC, who host Sony Sugar on Sunday, will be aiming for a positive start under new boss John Baraza who took over from Sam Ssimbwa following last weekend’s defeat to Thika United.

Weekend Fixtures

Saturday

Kariobangi Sharks Vs Nakumatt FC (14:00) Machakos

AFC Leopards Vs Zoo Kericho (16:15) Machakos

Sunday

Chemilil Sugar Vs Wazito FC (13:00) Chemilil

Tusker FC Vs Vihiga United (14:00) Ruaraka

Posta Rangers Vs Mathare United (15:00) Camp Toyoyo

Nzoia Sugar Vs Bandari (15:00) Sudi

Sofapaka FC Vs Sony Sugar (16:15) Ruaraka