Ulinzi confident of Shield glory after beating Nzoia United

After eliminating stubborn National Super League (NSL) leaders Nzoia United in the GOtv Shield Cup on Saturday, Ulinzi Stars believe the title is theirs’ to lose.

The 2010 Kenya Premier League (KPL) champions overcame the Bernard Mwalala coached side 5-4 on post match penalties after a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time to book their spot in the semi finals.

Ulinzi captain, James Saruni says they stand the best chance of representing Kenya in next year’s CAF Confederations Cup with log leaders Tusker the only other KPL side remaining in the Shield competition ahead of the re-scheduled quarter-final clash between Posta Rangers and Agro Chemicals on Wednesday, .

“We are glad we overcame a very tactically disciplined side which has shown capability of competing favourably against top league clubs. They almost got it right but our experience slowed down their speed.

“Looking at the remaining teams, we have an upper hand to finally lift the trophy but we cannot underrate any team. Any opponent in the semis is a serious contender,” the Ulinzi skipper asserted.

NSL side Kariobangi Sharks toppled holders Bandari FC 4-3 on penalties on Sunday after another 1-1 draw in a match where the 2014 KPL top scorer, Ugandan Dan Sserunkuma, blasted his spot kick wide to send his side crashing out.

“We were aware Nzoia would come with an attacking approach, having seen how they have been playing in their league and even Gor Mahia when they eliminated them.

“Once you understand how your opponent plays you can easily tame them no matter how good they are,” the Ulinzi custodian added.

Saruni emphasised they are determined to continue registering good results in the absence of ailing head coach Robert Matano in the league and cup.

“We were happy to make the semis; we are not under any pressure which favours our preparation for the next KPL assignment. Our head coach has not resumed duty and it is motivating for him to see the progress we are making, we want to continue winning for him and ourselves,” he emphasised.

“I am very impressed with the team because we fought to the end. The performance confirmed to me we are headed back to the premier league.

“It is a young team that is growing very fast. We now shift our focus to the league aiming to sustain the good run we have had and finish top,” Nzoia boss, Mwalala who is also a former Harambee Stars striker remarked.

Rangers sent fellow KPL side, Ushuru FC packing in a belated Round of 16 clash on Saturday also on penalties.

Meanwhile, Bandari coach Ken Odhiambo has blasted his players for complacency, regretting lost opportunities as they sunk to Sharks.

“We should have scored eight goals, our wastefulness cost us. My players did not offer what I expected and we have to accept it is gone. We now have to concentrate on the league and finish in a better position.”

His opposite number William Muluya was chuffed by the victory but expressed his reservation over his team’s inability to win in the regulation time.

“We did well but it is good to finish the business early to avoid deciding through penalties,” the Sharks boss told.

The semi finals will be played on October 1.