Shabana FC will be looking to end their three-match winless run when they host Kenya Police in a SportPesa League match at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on Monday.
The 4.15pm match is important for both teams. Shabana want to return to winning ways, while Police hope to build on their first win of the season.
Shabana drew 1-1 with Migori Youth on Thursday. The result was disappointing for the Glamour Boys, who have struggled to score goals in recent matches.
Coach Ahmed Fathi has raised concerns about the condition of the Afraha Stadium pitch, saying it has made it difficult for his team to play their preferred style.
“I cannot blame anyone; I have to improve my plans and tactics,” Fathi said.
“Let's face it. The quality of the pitch matters. On Thursday, the weather ruined our match against Migori at Afraha. If you give me a good pitch in proper condition, we will play well. But on this field, you cannot control the flow of the game.”
Fathi has also asked fans to remain patient as he builds a team that can compete for major honours.
“We did not come here just to participate. We want to build a team that can challenge for the biggest honours,” he said.
Shabana are fifth in the standings with six points from four matches. They have won once and drawn three times, conceding only one goal. Their main challenge has been turning their strong defence into goals.
Fathi is expected to keep his 4-4-2 formation. Kevin Omundi and Byron Otieno are likely to help control midfield, while Sigmunn Maina and Alhassan Hafiz lead the attack.
Police are eighth with five points after beating Ulinzi Stars 1-0 last Thursday. Elvis Rupia scored the winning goal to give the Law Enforcers their first victory of the season.
Interim coach Anthony Akhulia praised his players for putting their training work into practice.
“There is something we are working on. The win is great. We have really tried to work hard in training,” Akhulia said.
“I congratulate the team for the positive results in the short time we have been together. At the end of the day, the most important thing is how we prepare for a match.”
Akhulia has urged his players to stay focused against Shabana. He knows the pressure to get results at Police is high.
“The boys have to understand its importance,” he said.
“At Police, they don't take a loss easily, so it is up to me to make sure I am not in the frying pan.”
Police could use a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, with a strong defence and quick attacks. Rupia’s movement and ability to run into space behind the defence could be key.
The two teams have had close contests in recent years. In their last four league meetings, each side has won twice. Their most recent league match ended in a goalless draw. Police also beat Shabana 1-0 in the Mozzart Bet Cup semi-final in May.
Shabana will need to improve their finishing, while Police will look to keep the defensive strength that helped them beat Ulinzi. The pitch, control of midfield and taking chances could decide the match.
