Chemelil coach Abdalla Juma eager to pick home victory against Bandari

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Chemelil Sugar coach Abdalla Juma has called on his players to grant him his first Kenyan Premier League win when they host the unpredictable Bandari at Chemelil Sports Complex at 3pm today.

Being his first match at the millers’ traditional home ground since he succeeded Francis Baraza this season, Juma has challenged his charges to treat the match with the seriousness it deserves.

The seventh-placed Chemelil held Kakamega Homeboyz to a 1-1 draw and defeated AFC Leopards 2-0 at their alternative ground in Kisumu, but according to the experienced coach, it would be sweet if they win in front of their home fans.

“This is a very important match to me because it will be my first home game at Chemelil. Yes, we have won in Kisumu, but I would like the players to do it for me, just like they used to do with my predecessors,” Juma told The Standard Sports.

However, the former AFC Leopards and Thika United coach is wary of the threat posed by the on-form third-placed Bandari.

“We are facing a very dangerous team (Bandari). They are in one of their best forms, but we are determined to make our home fans happy,” said Juma.

“It will be a very tactical, but tough match. I am a bit worried about Bandari’s consistency, but I think this match will be decided by each team’s preparation.”

However, the highlight of the weekend will be tomorrow’s match between league leaders Gor Mahia and champions Tusker at Afraha Stadium.

The struggling brewers will be out to avenge their 1-0 DSTV Super Cup loss to Gor Mahia at the same venue last month. The match will be preceded by an early encounter between Posta Rangers and Kariobangi Sharks from 2pm.

Meanwhile, Sofapaka will play Kakamega Homeboyz at Camp Toyoyo, while AFC Leopards travel to face hosts Thika on Sunday.