• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 days ago

Shabana out to show who is boss as they welcome Mara Sugar to Gusii Stadium ‎

Shabana will be out to turn Gusii Stadium into a fortress when they host Mara Sugar in a Sportpesa League clash on Wednesday afternoon.

‎The mid-table encounter, set for a 3 pm kick-off in Kisii, pits two sides separated by just two points and chasing momentum as the season gathers pace.

Shabana sit sixth on 19 points, while Mara Sugar are ninth with 17, making this a fixture with real implications at both ends of the table.

‎Shabana come into the match in solid form, unbeaten in their last six league games. The Glamour Boys have built that run on defensive organisation, calm game management and taking their chances when they come.

However, their home form has been a concern, having lost three of their last five matches at Gusii Stadium.

‎Their most recent outing ended in a 2-2 draw away to Kakamega Homeboyz, a result that showed their fighting spirit but also highlighted areas that still need fixing. Before that, narrow 1-0 wins against Bidco United and Kenya Police underlined their ability to grind out results.

‎At home, though, Shabana have often dominated possession without hurting opponents, leaving gaps that have been punished on the counter. Fixing that problem will be key against a disciplined Mara Sugar side.

‎Mara Sugar arrive in Kisii in good spirits after back-to-back wins over Kariobangi Sharks and Mathare United. Their season has been defined by tight games, strong defensive shape and patience.

They have conceded just seven goals all season and have not allowed more than one goal in any of their last seven matches.

‎Away from home, Mara Sugar have been especially impressive. They are unbeaten on the road, with two wins and two draws, scoring in every away match. Their approach is simple but effective: stay compact, protect the middle and strike quickly when space opens up.

‎Team news suggests both coaches will stick with what has worked. Shabana are expected to keep their trusted core, though they remain without Brian Michira and George Onyango.

Stephen Otieno should start in goal behind a settled back four marshalled by Mark Okola and Wycliffe Omondi.

‎In midfield, Byron Otieno, Derick Otieno and Kevin Omundi will be tasked with controlling the tempo, while Ezekiah Omuri and Bronson Nsubuga provide pace out wide. Austine Odongo is likely to lead the line, aiming to make the most of crosses and set pieces.

‎Mara Sugar are expected to line up in their familiar shape, with Felix Adoyo in goal and a defence built on organisation and hard work. Their midfield trio will focus on breaking play, while the front players look to exploit any mistakes with quick runs in behind.

‎Recent meetings slightly favour Mara Sugar, who have won the last two league encounters. That history, combined with Shabana’s mixed home form and Mara Sugar’s strong away record, sets up an intriguing contest.

‎Shabana will feel pressure to deliver in front of their fans, while Mara Sugar will trust their structure and patience. With both teams capable of finding the net, fans can expect a competitive and entertaining afternoon in Kisii.