Tusker head coach Robert Matano has made clear their intentions of dislodging leaders Gor Mahia from the apex of the Kenyan Premier League table as the competition enters the home stretch.
The Ruaraka-based champions are second on the log with 39 points, six adrift of K’Ogalo, and the seasoned gaffer hopes to keep in touch when they face AFC Leopards on Wednesday.
Matano fired a warning shot to their third-placed opponents, telling them to expect an abrasive duel.
He, however, acknowledged the threat posed by their opponents given the rich depth of their squad and urged his charges to rise to the occasion.
“We are going for nothing short of a win in our match against Leopards. We are aware of the kind of competition we will be facing given the quality of their squad,” said Matano.
The seasoned gaffer threw down the gauntlet to his players to prove their mettle in the crucial phase of the cutthroat competition, reiterating his urge to propel them to a 12th title.
“This is the time for all our players to prove their worth. We signed them to win matches. It’s upon them to figure out how to do that once they are on the pitch because we have already prepared them well enough,” Matano said.
“We kicked off the season on a low note but I’m impressed with the kind of spirit we have displayed in our recent matches. With such determination, our chances of clinching the title remain high.”
Gor Mahia will look to consolidate their spot at the summit when they face Sofapaka in a tricky outing at Moi Stadium, Kasarani.
A win will see them maintain at least a six-point gap on their closest challengers regardless of how the rest of the teams fair in their fixtures.
Posta Rangers have a date with Kakamega Homeboyz at Kasarani Annex. Homeboyz head to the encounter high on confidence after eliminating Gor Mahia from the FKF Cup over the weekend.
Nzoia Sugar will hope to reclaim a spot in the top three when they face bottom-placed Vihiga Bullets at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega.
Coastal side Bandari host Ulinzi Stars at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa.
Mathare United and Talanta will settle scores at the Police Pavillion in South C, Nairobi before paving the way for a clash between Kariobangi Sharks and Bidco United.