• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 2 days ago

NSL promotion race enters crucial stage as Migori Youth, Mombasa United and Equity in action

The battle for promotion in the National Super League enters a decisive stage on Sunday with top contenders Migori Youth, Mombasa United and Equity all facing crucial matches in the race for a place in next season’s Kenyan Premier League (KPL).

With only a few matches left before the end of the season, every point could make the difference in the tightly contested title and promotion race.

Migori Youth will be under pressure when they travel to Wang’uru Stadium in Kirinyaga County to face Fortune Sacco. Migori go into the match full of confidence after beating Michael Olunga Football Academy 1-0 in the South Nyanza derby last weekend.

However, the pressure increased after 3K FC moved top of the table following their 2-1 win over Kibera Black Stars on Saturday.

Migori striker Syphas Otieno admitted the importance of Sunday’s fixture, saying the team must fight hard for victory.

“We are going to face one of the toughest sides in the league and equally one that is difficult to break down at their home ground. We are therefore expecting a tough test, but we have to grind out the desired result because this is a must-win match for us to keep our dreams alive,” said Otieno.

A win for Migori would return them to the top of the standings and strengthen their hopes of automatic promotion to KPL.

Fortune Sacco, on the other hand, will be looking to recover from their 2-1 defeat to 3K FC. The Kirinyaga-based side had enjoyed a ten-match unbeaten run before that loss and will hope to frustrate another promotion contender.

At the Coast, Mombasa United will host Nairobi City Stars at Mombasa Sports Club in another high-stakes encounter.

Mombasa United are seeking a quick response after suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to FC Talanta last weekend, a result that damaged their promotion hopes.

Currently third on the table, the coastal side know another poor result could allow their rivals to pull away in the race for promotion.

Nairobi City Stars may no longer be in the promotion race, but they will be eager to complete a league double after beating Mombasa United 1-0 in the first leg earlier this season.

Elsewhere, Equity FC will host Kisumu All Stars at Mashuuru Complex in Kajiado County.

Equity have emerged as serious promotion contenders after an impressive run of form that has seen them win their last three matches and remain unbeaten in ten games.

The Bankers sit fourth on the table with 63 points and know victory could move them closer to the top depending on results elsewhere.

Kisumu All Stars, however, are fighting to avoid relegation and desperately need points to stay clear of the danger zone.

Other matches scheduled for Sunday will see Mully Children’s Family take on Nzoia Sugar, Luanda Villa host Mwatate United, while Kabati FC face FC Talanta in Thika.