Migori Youth eye perfect start as NSL kicks off

Migori Youth captain Clifford Ouma leads his team to the pitch during a past NSL match. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Migori Youth captain Clifton Ouma is confident of helping his team earn promotion FKF Premier League next year as they kick off the 2021/22 National Super League (NSL) season with a match against Vihiga United at Mumias Sports Complex today in Kakamega.

Speaking to the Standard Sports, Ouma said they have had a good preseason and are ready to fight for promotion after many years in NSL.

“Earning promotion is a dream for every team in the Super League. For us, the journey starts today against Vihiga United,” said Ouma.

“We know they are an experienced side fresh from playing competitive football in the Premier League but we believe in ourselves. Playing on the road is always tough but we are Migori Youth. We are going for all the three points.”

Vihiga United, who were relegated from FKF PL last season, are rebuilding after losing some of their top players to Premier League clubs.

In Kericho, former top tier outfit Zoo returns to action after six-month in the cold as they host Kisumu All Stars.

Zoo were relegated from the FKF Premier League in May after being found guilty of match fixing by world football governing body Fifa.

Newly promoted Naivas FC, SS Assad and Mara Sugar will start their campaigns tomorrow against Mully Children’s Family (MCF), Murang’a Seal and Shabana respectively.

All eyes will be on Naivas, who gained automatic promotion after topping Zone A with almost a near perfect record.

The Nairobi-based club had an impressive season, winning 21 matches, drawing six, and losing only three in the campaign to finish top with 69 points, 12 ahead of second placed SS Asaad.

SS Asaad, who ousted Luanda Villa 2-1 in the promotion play-off to qualify for the second tier league, will also be out to impress in their maiden campaign.

Fallen Kenyan giants Shabana will be away to Transmara Sugar in Awendo.