Soy United are seeking to climb to fifth place on the National Super League (NSL) standings when they host struggling Gucha Stars in a rescheduled midweek fixture at the Eldoret ASK Showgrounds on Wednesday.
The Eldoret-based side currently sit seventh on the log with 28 points from 17 matches, and head coach Jeffers Odongo says victory would push them into the top five as they continue their impressive run of form.
Gucha Stars, meanwhile, arrive in Eldoret desperate for points. The Kisii-based outfit are 17th on the table with 19 points from 17 games and are fighting to escape the relegation zone.
The clash brings together two newly promoted sides whose fortunes have taken different paths since the start of the year. Soy United are riding high on a four-match winning streak, while Gucha Stars are winless in their last four outings.
Last weekend, Soy United edged Mwatate United 1-0 to extend their fine run, while Gucha Stars suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Kabati Youth. Odongo expects a tight contest, noting the familiarity between the two sides after their promotion from Division One.
“Belief and consistency have been the major factors in our last four games,” said Odongo. “We want to continue with this run, and we will go all out for a win against Gucha Stars. Our target of finishing in the top eight in the first leg is still achievable.”
Soy United have strengthened their squad following the departure of seven first-team players. They have signed experienced defender Robinson Kamura from Kakamega Homeboyz, teenage prospect Sydney Otieno (Bukembe High School) and midfielder Morgan Alupe (APS Bomet).
Gucha Stars, on the other hand, are searching for a turnaround after a difficult spell. Club chairman Darajani Gogo assured fans that the team is working hard to reverse its fortunes following a five-game winless run. “We understand that our recent performances have not been at the level we expect,” read a club statement.
“Behind the scenes, a lot of work is going on. The technical team and players are addressing our weaknesses and building a more competitive side. The commitment and hunger to improve remain very strong.”
Both sides will be desperate for maximum points as the NSL promotion and relegation battles continue to intensify.
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