National Super League: Is this Bidco United’s year

Nelson Chieya of Bidco United FC contest for ball with Stanley Ndungu of Wazito FC during their GOtv Shield Cup match at Mumias Sports complex on July 31, 2016. Bidco United won 4-3 on post penalties. [Photo Oliver Ananda/www.Sportpicha.com]

With 18 matches to play in the National Super League promotion battle, Bidco United believes this could be their year to earn an automatic ticket to the topflight.

The Thika-based outfit are second on the table, seven points behind leaders Nairobi City but the chasing pack of Nairobi Stima, Vihiga United, Ushuru, Migori Youth and Coast Stima all breathing down their neck.

"Promotion dream is so much achievable. From teamwork to working as a unit in mutual love and respect for each other, the odds are all on our side,” said Bidco United coach Anthony Akhulia told Standard Sports yesterday.

“The talk about 2020 being the year for Bidco is gradually building and to keep up with the momentum, there is a need to pump in more in terms of motivation to the boys. We appreciate the winning bonuses, incentives given to us by Bidco Africa and we can only ask the management to keep the hope alive,” Akhulia said.

Bidco United’s highest finish was fifth in 2010, with Akhulia being part of the playing unit at the time before being roped into the technical bench in 2014 by former international midfielder Tony Lwanga.

Akhulia rose to become Robert Matano’s assistant in 2017 before taking over at the end of 2018.

“The hunger for promotion is there for sure and I can see it among the players, who have bought into the idea,” he said.

Club captain Martin Mage who has been at the club for the last 10 years, said the working relationship between the players, technical bench and the support of their sponsors Bidco Africa is rubbing off the team.

“There is a long way to and promotion tickets are up for grabs. It is up to us to stay focused knowing that promotion is achievable,” Mage, who is the club’s longest-serving player, said.

Bidco Africa Group Director Chris Diaz said the management remains prayer and fully behind the team.

“Bidco United today is reaping the fruits of hard work and hope we shall rise to the top-tier league,” Diaz said.

He added: “The success of Bidco Group is the success of all Kenyans and thus a true testament that consistent investment and steadfastness is key to creating winning partnerships.”

Bidco United will be away to Talanta on Sunday.