EXCLUSIVE: Okidi pledges to guide ‘injured’ Shabana towards Premier League glory

In the previous season, Shabana FC was embroiled in a battle for survival from the very beginning until the final whistle of the campaign. Their place in the Premier League was only secured with two matches left, while Nzoia Sugar and Muhoroni Youth faced relegation, and Sofapaka had to compete in playoffs to determine their fate.

The Glamour Boys, based in Kisii, had just made their way up to the top tier after clinching the National Super League (NSL) title. They finished in 14th position out of 18 teams last season, racking up 38 points from 34 matches, with 10 victories, eight draws, and 16 losses.

This season presents a very different picture, with the team currently sitting in fourth place with 43 points from 27 matches. Affectionately known as Tore Bobe, they have achieved 11 wins, 10 draws, and only six losses.

They are now eight points adrift of league leaders Tusker, who have accrued 51 points from the same number of games. Second-placed Kenya Police FC sits just ahead at 49 points, while record champions Gor Mahia are a point in front at 47.

On Sunday, April 20th, Shabana continued their pursuit of the top spot with an emphatic 4-2 victory over FC Talanta at Dandora Stadium. Austine Odongo opened the scoring for Shabana in the 24th minute, followed by Brian Michira doubling the lead in the 34th minute.

Talanta’s Cyprian Mang’eni scored just before half-time to bring the score to 2-1, but Shabana responded in the 61st minute, as Odongo completed his brace. Despite Talanta narrowing the gap to 3-2, Michira secured the win with a goal in the 76th minute.

Shabana’s Determination for the Title

Coach Peter Okidi believes that Shabana’s elimination from the FKF domestic Cup following a 1-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz has revitalised their ambitions for the league title.

“We were thoroughly prepared for that match, coming in as a wounded team after the cup performance against Kakamega Homeboyz,” he stated. “I urged the players to redirect all our energy into the league; their performance against Talanta was fantastic, showcasing their determination. Our focus is purely on winning matches, and by the end of the season, we’ll see who stands victorious.”

When asked about Shabana’s prospects of clinching the title, Okidi remarked: “Every team will focus on winning their own matches. However, I am concerned about conceding two goals against Talanta; with the league so competitive at the top, the title could come down to goal difference.”

“Our aim is to secure victories in our upcoming matches, putting all our energy into performance. The joy from our win against Talanta will only be brief, as we shift our focus to the next match. We have the potential to win the title, and we are determined to see it through to the last match.”

Shabana has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak since their last defeat — a 2-1 loss to Posta Rangers on February 9th. After that, they drew 0-0 with Mathare United, 1-1 with Tusker, and saw a 4-1 win over Homeboyz, followed by 1-1 with AFC Leopards. They also triumphed over Murang’a Seal with a 3-0 win, defeated Bandari 3-1, and recently took down Talanta with a scoreline of 4-2.

Discussing their recent form, Okidi stated: “It’s a collective effort from the whole team; every player is contributing to our success. The goals we scored against Talanta were a product of teamwork, so it’s not just about our defensive line performing well; it’s about the team working together.”

“We still need to work on tightening our defence, especially to prevent goals from set-pieces. We conceded one against Talanta, and that’s something we must improve upon. I’m confident we can achieve a clean sheet in our next game while securing all three points.”

On the other hand, Talanta’s coach Jackson Gatheru expressed concerns over the goals conceded during the match against Shabana, calling them unusual for his team’s performances this season.

Shabana’s upcoming fixtures feature matches against Nairobi City Stars away, Gor Mahia at home, KCB away, Bidco United at home, Mara Sugar at home, Kenya Police away, and Ulinzi Stars at home.