Kenya Hockey Union Premier League: Jaguars determined to end Butali Warriors' unbeaten run

Western Jaguars' Richard Njuki (left) and Ivan Lidiali challenge Moses Cheplaiti (left) of Kenya Police during Hockey Premier League match at City Park Stadium on Sunday, 3rd 202. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

High-flying Western Jaguars will be seeking to end Butali Warriors unbeaten run when they travel to face the defending champions in a top of the table Kenya Hockey Union Premier League match at City Park which will host four matches today.

Jaguars, who have not lost any of their last five matches, have scored 12 goals in their last four matches and head coach Mike Malungu is banking on their recent form to topple the champions.

Speaking to Standard Sports, Malungu who also doubles as national team coach, said they have worked out on their previous mistakes and believes they are ready to face the Warriors.

The Kakamega-based club kicked off the season on the wrong foot after losing three of their first four matches but have since picked up pace to climb up to third on the table standings.

In their last four matches, Jaguars have edged out Mombasa Sports Club (7-0), Parkroad Badgers (1-0), Greensharks (2-1) and Strathmore University Gladiators (1-0).

"It's a tough game against the Warriors, but we are Jaguars. The boys have shown they can play better after a poor start to the season. Our last four victories are as a result of hard work and resilience and I trust we can beat the champions," said Malungu.

"It is not going to be an easy road though and we have to be tactical, defend well and take our chances. The goal remains to compete for the title."

Warriors are currently leading the standings with 29 points after winning nine of their 11 matches played. Jaguars are third with 16 points.

With nine matches left to the end of the season, a win for the leaders will improve their chances of retaining the title they won last year.

In the other men's match, wounded Strathmore Gladiators face off against Greensharks at 4pm.

In the women's Premier League, leaders Strathmore University's Scorpions tackle bottom-placed Amira Sailors at noon.

The university students will be seeking to maintain their perfect run and register their sixth straight win of the season as they continue aiming to dethrone record champions Blazers.

Scorpions have garnered 15 points and are yet to concede a single goal this season.

They have defeated Lakers (1-0), Sliders (2-0), Wolverines (1-0), Sailors (2-0) and defending champions Blazers (2-0).

Kisumu's Lakers Hockey Club on the other hand will be playing fifth placed Sliders and defending champions Blazers as they hope to end their poor run which has seen them win only one match of the four played.