Kenya Police gaffer Anthony Kimani has stressed the significance of getting their Kenyan Premier League season off to a flying start.
In an exclusive interview on Thursday, Kimani said a positive outcome would set their title contention in motion.
The Law Enforcers have an arduous task in their season opener against 11-time champions Tusker at the Police Sacco stadium on Sunday. Kimani reckons they possess the mojo to tuck away maximum points.
They will be gracing the local stage for the first time since the preceding season, having been excluded from the KPL fixtures for two consecutive weeks due to their involvement in continental games.
Their lofty aspirations to garnish their trophy cabinet with continental silverware went up in smoke after crashing out to Egyptian representatives Zamalek in the preliminary stage of the Caf Confederation Cup, last weekend.
"Right now, the emphasis is on getting ready for our matchup with Tusker. We have to get off to a positive start. We will work hard to secure a win because this will be crucial in determining how our season plays out " Kimani said.
Kimani dismissed concerns that his charges might be exhausted after expending energy on the continental stage.
“We have a large roster of players and depth is not an issue. We can easily rotate the squad and accomplish the desired outcome," he said.
They hope to enhance their fortunes in the competition after wrapping up third behind champions Gor Mahia and Sunday's opponents Tusker in the preceding season.
“We will be happy to win the league for the first time. That's our main target. We intend to tackle one match at a time, though," he added.
Police must be cautious as they take the battle to the doorstep of the Ruaraka-based Brewers who are hungry for victory, having secured only one win in three games thus far.
Tusker head coach Charles Okere tipped his charges to bounce back strongly after squandering a two-goal advantage to share spoils with Kakamega Homeboyz last weekend.
"We went to the drawing board and plugged in the gaps that cost us victory in our last match. We're expecting maximum points against Police on Sunday," he said.
"We lost a big chunk of seasoned players in the last transfer window and brought in some new talent that has proved amazing in the three matches," he added.
Also returning to local action after a lengthy absence are reigning champions Gor Mahia, who will lock horns with KPL returnees Mathare United at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Sunday.
In matches lined up for Saturday, KCB will square it off with Ulinzi Stars at Thika Stadium while Shabana will host Posta Rangers at Gusii Stadium.
Murang'a Seal host high-flying debutants Mara Sugar at St Sebastian Park while Bidco United and Talanta will settle scores at Thika Stadium.
On Sunday, Sofapaka will flex muscles with Bandari as AFC Leopards take on City Stars at Nyayo Stadium. Kakamega Homeboyz host Kariobangi Sharks at Bukhungu stadium.