•The seasoned gaffer who boasts a wealth of experience on the topflight stage pledged to use his expertise to guide Batoto ba Mungu to the promised land.
•He joined the side after steering Ruaraka-based Brewers Tusker Fc to three titles following a stellar eleven-year stint.
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Sofapaka head coach Robert Matano has expressed confidence in the ability of his charges to crack a top-five finish in the Kenyan Premier League this season.
Popularly known as ‘The Lion’, Matano said he would do his best to steer the side to an improved performance compared to the preceding season when they narrowly evaded relegation and got a new lease of life after flooring Naivas in the promotion playoffs.
“We are not merely participating in the competition this time around. We are determined to wrap up in a decent position and if possible contend for the title,” he added.
Matano said he was satisfied with the recruitment done in the last transfer window but hinted at the possibility of strengthening the squad in the coming days.
“Of course, there are areas we need to address urgently if we are serious about charging for the title this season,” he said.
He reminisced about their momentous feat in 2009 when they stormed to the Kenyan Premier League title, adding that they were keen to stand atop the podium with time.
“Winning the league is not a walk in the park but something we can dream of. However, we still need to work on a few things to bolster our chances, including ensuring we gel as a squad and fill all the departments with the right personnel,” he added.
The seasoned coach who boasts a wealth of experience on the topflight stage pledged to use his expertise to guide Batoto ba Mungu to the promised land. He joined the side after steering Ruaraka-based brewers Tusker FC to three titles following a stellar eleven-year stint.
“The good news is that I know what it takes to win titles and all we need is to work towards systematically achieving this,” he said.
“I don’t want to pile pressure on the boys because I need them to keep their focus intact and take one match at a time. But I believe we can achieve a lot with the right mindset and if we decide to work hard enough. It’s possible,” he said.
Matano predicted a tough season, saying he was satisfied with the quality of the sides in the competition, including the newbies.
“It will be difficult to predict the favourites given the nature of the clubs we are having this season. The first round proved very competitive. Mara Sugar are in their debut season and Mathare United are in familiar territories,” he said.
“The reality is that everyone has come prepared and collecting points will not be very easy,” he added.