Ulinzi Starlets' head coach Collins Oduor/ HANDOUTUlinzi Starlets coach Collins Oduor believes his reshaped squad has the quality to mount a stronger challenge for the FKF Women’s Premier League title when the new season kicks off on Saturday.
The soldiers open their campaign against Gideon Starlets at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, with Oduor having added seven new players while welcoming back six who had been away completing their basic military training.
“We want to welcome the new players and those who have come back after completing their military training. They bring different qualities to the team and will give us more options as we prepare for the new season,” Oduor said.
The new arrivals include goalkeeper Mercy Akoth and defender Ruth Khasoha from Vihiga Queens, full-back Merycline Meja of Trinity Starlets, creative midfielder Monalisa Owenga from Zetech Sparks, attacking midfielder Velma Awour, midfielder Hellen Mito of Soccer Assassins and Claire Walunywa from Baringo 030 Starlets.
Those returning are goalkeeper Phiona Ariko, defenders Mary Ojenge and Tabitha Amoit, midfielders Lavender Akinyi and Cindy Ngaira, and forward Joy Oriyo.
Ulinzi finished second last season with 47 points from 20 matches, five points behind champions Kenya Police Bullets. They won 15 matches, drew two and lost three, scoring 42 goals and conceding 11.
“We have been close, but this season we want to go for the title. The target is to compete at the top and remain consistent throughout the season,” Oduor said.
The coach used the pre-season to test his new combinations, with Ulinzi playing friendly matches against Shabana Queens/Starlets, Uweza Academy and four other opponents. Oduor has also emphasised improving the team’s build-up play, movement and transition while demanding greater efficiency in front of goal.
“We have been working on our combinations, movement and how we transition from defence to attack. We also want to be more clinical in front of goal and remain compact when we lose possession,” he said.
The expanded squad gives Oduor flexibility in midfield and across the defence, and the return of the six players provides additional experience as the Soldiers prepare for a demanding campaign.
Gideon Starlets, who finished ninth last season, will provide the first test. “We have to take every match seriously. Our focus is on improving from game to game, getting the points and building momentum,” Oduor said. Ulinzi will kick off at 2 pm on Saturday, hoping to make a positive start to a campaign in which they intend to go one step further than last season.
