Kenyan Premier League side Shabana will play their first home game at Gusii Stadium after 18 years when they take on 2009 champions Sofapaka on Wednesday afternoon.
Shabana’s return home was delayed after referees gave the visit of Posta Rangers a wide berth a month ago.
Shabana coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo said: “It’s an opportunity for our fans to watch the team playing at home after an 18-year hiatus. We will not let them down. I’m asking our fans to turn up in large numbers and support the team.”
He hopes for an improved performance from his charges after falling 1-0 to debutants Mara Sugar on Saturday at Awendo Stadium in Migori.
“We gave away a very soft goal against Mara Sugar on Saturday. I have told the players what I expect from them in the game against Sofapaka,” noted Omollo.
New signing Darius Msagha, top scorer Mathew Tegisi and captain Justine Omwando will miss the encounter through injuries.
“Tegisi has not recovered from an ankle injury while Maasai has a muscle injury. Msagha has a 50-50 chance of making his debut but if he can’t, I will give other players an opportunity. I don’t want him to aggravate his injury,” said Pamzo.
Both Shabana and Sofapaka, under veteran tactician Robert Matano, are winless.
Meanwhile, Shabana have waived gate charges for their match against Posta Rangers on December 4.
Secretary general Elizaphan Kerama made the announcement as he revealed gate charges for the season. On weekdays, tickets will retail at Sh500 for VVIP, Sh200 for VIP and Sh200 for terraces while on weekends, the charges will be Sh1,000 for VVIP, Sh500 for VIP and Sh300 for terraces.