Mathare United head coach John Kamau has predicted a brilliant season for the Slum Boys who are back to the top-flight stage after a year in the second tier.
Kamau rejoined the SIDE after steering rivals Posta Rangers to a top-ten finish in the preceding season.
In an exclusive interview with the Star, Kamau tipped his charges to register good results this season.
“We are determined to make an impression in the league and relegation is not an option this time. We have some talented players who can steer us to the heights we aspire to reach,” Kamau said.
“We have strengthened all the departments and look forward to a good performance in our first match against Leopards on Sunday,” he added.
The Slum Boys wrapped up second in the National Super League behind winners Mara Sugar to secure promotion back to the top tier.
Meanwhile, AFC Leopards head coach Thomas Trucha believes his charges are ready to kick off the new season on a high.
The felines hope to end their heartwrenching 26-year-old title drought this season and cap it off with an appearance on the continental stage.
Trucha believes his squad boasts sufficient depth to charge for the elusive silverware.
“We have trained well. I believe we are prepared for the huge task ahead. We are looking forward to a brilliant campaign this season,” he said.
He asked his players to make their fans proud in Sunday's encounter against the Slum Boys.
Several KPL fixtures have been lined up for the weekend.
Posta Rangers host Bandari at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Saturday at 1 pm.
KCB will flex muscles with Kariobangi Sharks at the Police Sacco grounds, Nairobi at 1 pm as Tusker FC dare Sofapaka at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos at 4 pm.
Bidco United have a date with Shabana at Thika Sub-county Stadium in a highly-anticipated 3 pm encounter.
On Sunday, Ulinzi Stars will lock horns with Murang'a Seal at the Ulinzi Sports Complex. Newbies Mara Sugar will host Kakamega Homeboyz at Awendo Green Stadium.
