Shabana pray for things to get better after tough return to FKF Premier League

Shabana FC players celebrate victory against Tusker FC during their FKF Premier League match at Kasarani Main Stadium in Nairobi on October 06, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Shabana FC's return to top-tier FKF Premier League has been a rollercoaster journey marred by challenges and a struggle to find their footing.

Hailing from Kisii County, this newly promoted team secured their place in the league after clinching the National Super League title, marking their comeback to the Premier League after a 17-year hiatus.

The optimism that shrouded their promotion dimmed as the realities of top-flight football hit home. Shabana, after 10 rounds, languishes at the bottom of the 18-team league, managing to amass just seven points.

Their performance, with just one win since their elevation, paints a grim picture of their survival prospects in the intense and competitive league.

The departure and subsequent return of their coach, Sammy Okoth, reflected the internal turmoil within the team.

Despite Okoth's comeback, the team's performance failed to witness a significant upturn.

Shabana FC player in action against Police FC during their match at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homabay County.[Sammy Omingo,Standard]

The early matches demonstrated inconsistency, with a mix of draws, losses, and a solitary victory against Tusker, which briefly sparked hope among the fans.

However, their subsequent matches, including a disheartening 4-0 loss to Ulinzi Stars and a defeat to defending champions Gor Mahia, exacerbated the growing concerns.

The recent 2-1 loss to Bandari further deepened the team's woes, emphasising their struggle both in defense and attack.

Okoth's leadership has come under intense scrutiny, with calls for his dismissal amplifying after consecutive poor performances. Shabana's inability to find the net and their vulnerability in conceding goals underscore the urgent need for a strategic overhaul.

The question of survival or relegation looms over Shabana FC. The challenges they face, especially in terms of consistency, defensive solidity, and goal-scoring prowess, raise doubts about their ability to endure the demanding league fixtures.

In contrast, other new entrants, such as Murang’a SEAL, have showcased an unexpected resilience and determination. SEAL's impressive performance, sitting near the top alongside established powerhouses like Gor Mahia, has been a surprise in the league.

Their upcoming match against Gor Mahia promises to be a litmus test for their mettle and aspirations.

Shabana FC players celebrate victory against Tusker FC during their FKF Premier League match at Kasarani Main Stadium in Nairobi on October 06, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

As Shabana struggles to find stability and rhythm, the table-topping Posta Rangers continue to maintain their lead. Rangers' resilience and ability to secure points, even after a goalless draw with KCB, highlight their intent to remain at the summit.

The road ahead for Shabana FC appears challenging and arduous.

With their current form and the unforgiving nature of the league, their fate hangs in the balance. They must re-evaluate their strategies, fortify their team dynamics, and find the much-needed balance between defense and offense to stand a chance of survival.

The subsequent fixtures will be pivotal for Shabana's destiny in the league. Whether they can rise from their slump and salvage their position or succumb to the pressures, only time will reveal the fate of this Kisii-based club in the intense realm of the FKF Premier League.