Tusker ready for Mathare: Brewers set to extend good run as they host Slum Boys

Ulinzi vs Tusker Geoffrey Kokoyo (left) of Ulinzi stars Battles for the ball with Michael Khamata of Tusker Fc during the Sportpesa premier league match at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on April 15,2017.PHOTO:KIPSANG JOSEPH

Defending champions keen to catch up with league leaders Gor who host Thika United at Nyayo

Kenyan Premier League champions Tusker will be seeking to extend their unbeaten run to six games when they host struggling Mathare United in Ruaraka.

Both Tusker and Mathare go into this match on the back of very contrasting forms.

Unlike the Brewers who bounced back from a stuttering start to the season to win five matches in a row, 15th-placed Slum Boys have been blowing hot and cold and have registered just a win in their last five games.

Apart from the three points, there is a lot at stake as Mathare coach Francis Kimanzi will be reuniting with his former club and his national team Harambee Stars deputy coach Francis Baraza.

But it is Baraza who is relishing the chance to meet his former boss after their superb bounce-back.

“It is a great feeling to meet my former boss, we respect him but we expect the boys to give their all and get good results.

“Mathare have had a bad run. But we cannot underrate them at all. It is a good side with a respected coach,” Baraza told The Standard Sports.

On their turn-around in fortunes, the former Kenyan international said: “Everybody was not happy with the way we started the season. We are looking forward to finish the first leg on a high note.”

The highlight of the weekend will be tomorrow’s clash in Nakuru pitting former champions Ulinzi Stars and the unbeaten Posta Rangers. League leaders Gor Mahia will host bottom-placed Thika United at Nyayo Stadium as troubled AFC Leopards face-off with Kakamega Homeboyz at Mumias Sports Complex.