• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 5 days ago

Mara Sugar, Mombasa United seek first wins as Sportpesa League returns to Narok

Mara Sugar and Mombasa United will be chasing their first wins of the new Sportpesa League season when they meet at William Ole Ntimama Stadium on Monday, in a fixture that also marks the return of top-flight football to Narok after four years.

Both sides head into the encounter under pressure to collect maximum points after failing to win their opening matches, setting the stage for a competitive contest as they look to get their campaigns on track.

Mara Sugar began the 2026/2027 season with a 2-2 draw against league newcomers 3K FC, while Mombasa United suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz in their first-ever top-flight outing.

For Mara, the match presents an opportunity to make their new home ground count as they enter their third season in the top flight. The Millers have previously hosted their matches in Awendo but will now look to establish a strong presence in Narok.

Head coach Mike Mururi has challenged his players to take advantage of home support, insisting that securing maximum points is important ahead of their next away assignment.

Mururi, however, acknowledged that playing at an unfamiliar venue could present a challenge, but urged his squad to adapt quickly and deliver a positive performance.

Mombasa United, meanwhile, will be eager to bounce back after the opening-day disappointment. Head coach Abdulhamid Moallin believes his team is ready to respond, although he has raised concerns about the condition of the playing surface.

Moallin has confirmed that his squad has no injury concerns ahead of the match and called on his players to adjust to the pitch conditions and focus on securing their first league victory.

Monday’s encounter will be the first meeting between the two sides in the Premier League, although they have crossed paths three times in the National Super League. Mara hold the historical advantage, having registered two wins and a draw.

Elsewhere, Bandari will welcome 3K FC to Mbaraki Stadium, with both teams also targeting their first victories of the campaign.

Bandari opened their season with a goalless draw against AFC Leopards, while 3K FC shared the points with Mara Sugar following their 2-2 stalemate.

The two Monday fixtures offer four winless sides an early opportunity to build momentum as the new league season gathers pace.