POSTA Rangers head coach Sammy “Pamzo” Omollo expects nothing short of a brilliant performance when they face a technically adept Kariobangi Sharks at Dandora Stadium on Friday.
The Nairobi-based mailmen have had a trouble-ridden campaign to lie 15th on the standings with 20 points, just two above the bottom three of Talanta, City Stars and Bidco.
“I have given my players targets myself too. We are pushing ourselves to achieve it while we remain confident it will work,” Omollo said.
He tipped his experienced squad to replicate last weekend’s 2-1 masterclass against Shabana.
It was a much-needed tonic for a team grappling with self-doubt and the spectre of navigating the treacherous waters of relegation.
“We are glad we finally managed to pick maximum points last weekend, which has really boosted our camp’s morale. Handling a team that is losing week in, week out means that you have to work hard to build their self-confidence,” Omollo said.
“A win against Kariobangi Sharks will keep us out of danger.” His Sharks’ counterpart, William Muluya, reckons they possess the mojo to upset their opponents. He urged his strikers to be razor-sharp in front of goal going into Friday’s game.
They squandered numerous chances in their barren draw against AFC Leopards last weekend. Muluya said a sharper attacking display will be pivotal.
The ability to exploit defensive weaknesses could determine the outcome of the match.
“We must learn to capitalise on all the goal-scoring opportunities we create,” said Muluya.
“We possess a talented squad capable of inflicting damage on any opponent. However, our inability to convert opportunities poses a significant hurdle.”
Elsewhere, Kakamega Homeboyz head coach Francis Barasa targets maximum points against struggling City Star.
“Our target is to crack a
top-five finish. It’s high time we
considered winning matches to
achieve this,” said Barasa.
City Stars are feeling the heat,
especially after losing their star
forward, Mohamed Bajaber, to
league leaders Kenya Police.
Coach Salim Babu acknowledges the challenge of replacing
Bajaber but trusts the depth of his
squad.