Thrown to deep end: Former Stima coach Barasa guides Muhoroni against AFC

BY GILBERT WANDERA

Former Western Stima coach Francis Barasa, now in charge of Muhoroni Sugar, who play AFC Leopards today. [PHOTO: FILE/STANDARD]

New Muhoroni Youth coach Francis Barasa begins his first assignment today when he guides the struggling side against AFC Leopards at home in this midweek Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match.

Barasa has taken over from Peter Odhiambo who will now be the assistant coach at the club.

Prior to his new job, Barasa was the head coach at Western Stima, but was relieved  of his duties due to poor performance three weeks ago.

Speaking ahead of today’s clash, Barasa said his main focus  is to build cohesion in the team and to motivate the players.

“I have been here for two training sessions and the biggest need is to build cohesion in the team. I am not here to make any drastic changes. We have had a fruitful meeting with the players and former head coach and we all understand the need to start winning.

“The players are looking sharp and want to win and score goals given that it has not been a good start to the season for them,” he said.

Barasa further said he does not fear Leopards and has predicted a good match between the two sides.

Release anger

“They have a big reputation and will also be keen to use this match to release their anger as they have not had a good start either. I watched them against SuperSport United at the weekend and I can say they are a good side and we will give them their due respect,” he said.

Barasa will be under pressure to motivate a side that has failed to rise up to the occasion in the last three matches and are desperately in need of victory.

Their latest result was a 1-0 loss to newcomers Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) on Saturday.

Veteran defender Frankline Osama and Nigerian striker Abbas Akiyemi are among the seasoned players Barasa has at his disposal to unleash today.

After being edged out of the Confederations Cup by Supersport United, AFC Leopards coach James Nandwa has said his focus will now be on the league.

“We shift gears to the local league and will be looking for a positive result against Muhoroni Youth,” he said.

AFC have had a slow start to the season as they remain winless in two matches. The team drew 1-1 with KCB before being held to a barren draw by former champions Ulinzi Stars.

Nandwa understands that he must start winning on the league front to appease the fans who are beginning to be impatient with his tactics.

After the team’s failure at the continental stage, some of the fans called for his sacking. Nandwa boasts of one of the most experienced squads comprising players like Allan Wanga, Jacob Keli and Noah Wafula upfront.

The team will, however, be without injured goalkeeper Wycliff Kasaya and Martin Musalia may be forced to step into his shoes.

Kasaya will be out for three weeks after he strained his thigh on Sunday during the match against SuperSport.