Sofapaka coach Baraza: We are ready

Sofapaka FC warmed up for the upcoming FKF Premier League with a barren draw against National Super League (NSL) side Silibwet Leons FC on Thursday.

With barely a week remaining to the start of the new season, Sofapaka head coach John Baraza said his charges are in good shape as they seek a strong start in the top-flight league.

“I think we are ready to go, I have already acquired all the players I wanted and at the moment I have a big squad of 29 players and so I am working towards finding my starting 11 in the coming days before the start of the league,” said Baraza.

Ahead of the new campaign, Sofapaka have already added midfield maestro Lawrence Juma from champions Gor Mahia as well as former KCB skipper Mike Kibwage on to their arsenal as they seek to wrestle the title from serial winners Gor.

The 2009 Kenyan Premier League champions will host KCB in their opening match of the season on November 22.

Meanwhile, Baraza has heaped praise on Silbwet FC who will be making the debut at the second -tier league after earning promotion from the FKF Division one.

“Silibwet is a very good side that is why we have not scored against them. I believe they will be one of the strongest sides in the NSL. They also have a very strong fan base at home,” he said.

Silbwet head coach Eric Rono said they are ready for NSL action where they face newbies Mwatate FC on November 28.

“I think we are ready for the league and from the way we played against a very good side in Sofapaka I am very happy with my boys. I know it is not going to be easy but we are ready for the challenge ahead,” said Rono.