FKF Premier League promotion play-off: Vihiga keen to remain in top league
Football
By
Washington Onyango
| Sep 12, 2021
Vihiga United captain Patrick Okulo has his eyes fixed at helping his club remain in the top league as they host National Super League side Kenya Police in the FKF Premier League promotion play-off at the Mumias Sports Complex today.
Speaking to the Standard Sports, Okulo said their target is to win their home match and head into the second leg with an advantage.
“No pressure. Our approach will be the same as every other game we have played before, but with a little bit of efficiency considering a lot of goals will help especially in the first leg. We want to start the play-offs on a high note for us to head to Nairobi with momentum,” he said.
Police are seeking promotion to the top-tier league after amassing 64 points in the just concluded National Super League (NSL) while Vihiga are fighting to avoid relegation after finishing 16th position in the Premier League.
“We have the belief to stay in the premier league. We know if we play our cards right and not concede any goals the chances of surviving the drop will be higher. We will play our hearts out for our fans who we will miss,” added Okulo ahead of the playoffs which will be played with no fans.
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This will be the second time Vihiga will be featuring in the play-off in the last two seasons. Last year, they defeated Kisumu All Stars on penalties to earn promotion to the top league.
On the other hand, Kenya Police which is led by former Gor Mahia coach John “Bobby” Ogolla will also be keen on returning to the top league.
The reverse fixture is slated for September 19 at Ruaraka Grounds in Nairobi.
The winner over two legs will feature in the 2021/2022 FKF-PL season set to kick off on September 25.
FC Talanta and Vihiga Bullets have already been promoted to the top flight league after securing two automatic slots, with Zoo Kericho and Western Stima dropping to NSL.