Africa-Press – Kenya. Leaders Tusker and KCB intensify their quest for the Kenyan Premier League title as the cut-throat race enters round 32 over the weekend.
The sides are neck and neck at the summit of the FKF- PL log, each having already amassed 58 points from 29 matches.
Coach Robert Matano will spearhead Tusker’s onslaught against a tricky Kakamega Homeboyz side at Ruaraka Grounds on Friday.
The brewers head into the match in the full knowledge that anything short of a win could hand KCB the edge they desperately need to run away with their maiden top-flight title.
The bankers make a crucial trip to Mumias Complex to flex muscles with Vihiga United.
It will be quite interesting to see if coach Zedekiah Otieno will inspire his charges to make light work of their hosts, who are incidentally fighting for survival at the bottom of the log.
Third-placed Bandari host a rejuvenated Mathare United side at Mbaraki on Saturday.
The Slum Boys have momentarily disentangled themselves from the jaws of relegation after pulling off a string of convincing performances in their last four encounters, where they registered a combination of draws and wins.
The Slum Boys are currently placed 15th with 24 points, ahead of Western Stima and Vihiga. A win over Mathare might propel the coastal lads to within five points of both Tusker and KCB.
Thirteen-time KPL champions AFC Leopards have an arduous task ahead against Ulinzi Stars at ASK Ground in Nakuru. Leopards are fifth on the log with 44 points and a win could propel them to third.
However, flooring the hard-battling soldiers may not be a walk in the park. Coach Benjamin Nyangweso has guided his side to consistent performances in the second half of the season, their latest casualty being Wazito, whom they pipped 2-1 in Nakuru a fortnight ago before forcing Bidco to a 1-1 draw at Thika Stadium days later.
Bidco host Betway Cup champions Gor Mahia at Thika Stadium on Saturday. Gor must look over their shoulders for the top-tier debutants, who have since earned the giant killers’ tag.
K’Ogalo’s newly-appointed head coach Mark Harrison made it clear they would only be battling for pride in their remaining fixtures as they train their sights on the CAF Confederations Cup, having already let the title slip through their fingers.
Any hopes the 19-time KPL champions had of defending their title for a fifth consecutive year were dashed after blowing hot and cold throughout the season.
Kariobangi Sharks will settle scores with Nzoia Sugar at Thika Stadium on Friday, while Nairobi City Stars and Posta Rangers will flex muscles at Ruaraka Grounds on Saturday.
Wazito and Sofapaka square it off at Thika Stadium on Saturday in a match that will precede the tie between Gor and Bidco.
