Shabana Starlets players celebrate following their victory against Elim White Ladies/ANGWENYI GICHANANewly promoted Women’s Premier League (WPL) side Shabana Starlets have shifted their focus to this weekend’s clash against defending champions Kenya Police Bullets.
The Starlets are buoyed by their maiden WPL victory, a 2-0 win over Elim White Ladies at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru.
Youthful forward Christine Mong’ina scored a brace, finding the net in either half. Bullets have had a perfect start to the season, beating Bungoma Queens and Zetech Sparks in their opening two games.
Starlets coach Peter Ogechi, a former Shabana FC midfielder, said the team is targeting maximum points against the champions despite expecting a tough encounter.
“I know the game against Kenya Police Bullets will be tough. They are defending champions and have experienced players. However, we are targeting maximum points. There will be no pressure on us,” said Ogechi.
The tactician said he was satisfied with the team’s return of four points from their opening two matches.
“In the first game, we conceded two goals because of our mistakes. Against Elim White Ladies, we minimised our mistakes and kept a clean sheet. This is a different league from the NSL, so we expect tough games,” he added.
Ogechi also praised the team’s supporters for turning up in large numbers for their opening two matches at Dandora Stadium and Afraha Stadium.
“I was impressed by the turnout in the games at Dandora Stadium and Afraha. I’m asking the fans to continue supporting the team,” he said.
He also praised Mong’ina for opening her WPL goal account and tipped the young forward to play a key role in the team’s campaign.
“She is a young and talented player. She will go far, but she must remain grounded and keep working hard,” Ogechi said.
The coach said the team’s primary objective this season is to retain its WPL status before setting higher targets next season.
“We want to survive relegation, then next season we set new targets,” he noted.
Ogechi added that the seven new signings had brought valuable experience to the squad. Among them is Hellen Ochieng, who was named Player of the Game in the match against Kayole Starlets.
Meanwhile, Mong’ina is relishing the prospect of facing Kenya Police Bullets.
“It’s a big game for us, but we are ready to face them,” she said.
