AFC Leopards seek to power off Stima
Football
By
Rodgers Eshitemi
| Oct 19, 2019
Today’s double-header in Machakos will be the highlight of round six as the financially-stricken Kenyan Premier League resumes this weekend after the international break.
Fresh from receiving a walkover against Sony Sugar, second-placed AFC Leopards (10 points) hope to temporarily leapfrog rivals Gor Mahia at the top of the table when they tackle Western Stima in a late kick off tie in Machakos.
The 4.15pm match will be preceded by an early fixture between Wazito and Kakamega Homeboyz at 2pm.
Another joint second placed side KCB will be away to Nakuru to clash with Ulinzi Stars as Bandari seek to bounce back from the controversial 2-1 loss to Sofapaka when they Chemelil Sugar at Mbaraki Stadium.
The match is however doubtful as by late yesterday Chemelil Sugar had not travelled for the match while Sony Sugar are also unlikely to honour their match against Tusker today. The match is scheduled for Kenyatta Stadium.
READ MORE
Doctors set 90-day ultimatum for pay talks, warn of strike
Kenya, Italy adopt four-year cooperation plan after Ruto-Meloni talks
“We are not sure if we will travel to Mombasa because we have not yet received clearance from the management.
“Things are really difficult here,” said Chemelil Sugar assistant coach Charles Odero.
While unbeaten K’Ogalo will battle Kariobangi Sharks in Nakuru tomorrow aiming to extend their stay at the summit, sixth placed Posta Rangers will be in Kericho today hunting for their third win of the campaign against Zoo.
But to continue with their impressive run of form, AFC Leopards coach Cassa Mbungo has urged his charges to put their financial woes behind them ahead of the Stima encounter.
“You all know the situation we are in right now. Unlike us, Stima are financially stable, but I think it will be a tough match for both teams.
“Sometimes in life, it’s only through difficult times that you can see the grace of God. Though we have our own issues, the players are determined to get positive results,” Mbungo told Standard Sports.
“It’s still too early to talk about the title. But I think, if we get a sponsor and fans continue supporting the boys, then nothing can stop us from reviving our lost glory.
“The international break really helped us to continue trying different combinations and gel as a team.
“We are slowly getting our winning team, but I believe if we perform like we did against Chemelil we will win today.”