KCB coach Bernard Mwalala has explained the reason AFC Leopards will start as favourites when the two sides face off in an FKF Premier League fixture at Kasarani Stadium on Friday.
While Ingwe played their season opener against FC Talanta which ended in a 0-0 draw at Nyayo Stadium, the Bankers were not able to kick off the season as their fixture against Kakamega Homeboyz was shelved to allow Abana Baingo to play their first preliminary round return leg fixture of the Caf Confederation Cup against Al Hilal Benghazi in Libya.
The cancellation of the fixture has left Mwalala, who took charge of the team at the start of the season after replacing Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno insisting Ingwe will head into the game with an advantage as they have already rectified mistakes that arose against Talanta.
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“It is going to be a difficult game, but my boys are inspired as they look ahead to the new season, already AFC have played one match, their season opener, and this gives them a slight advantage heading into the game because they have already rectified what they saw in their game against Talanta,” Mwalala told Africa Top Sports.
“The new signings have added morale to the team and I am happy that we are covered in every department, defence, midfield, and attacking area, and now have tough competition for starting roles which is very health for my side, it means every player is ready to start in any given game.”
In other matches set for Friday, after kicking off their season with a 0-0 draw against champions Gor Mahia, Sofapaka will be targeting their first victory under new Burundian coach Francis Harigingo when they take on Bandari at Kasatani Annex while promoted side Shabana FC will seek to bounce back from losing to Murang’a Seal FC when they face off with Talanta at Nyayo Stadium.
Meanwhile, Kenya Police, who drew 0-0 with Kariobangi Sharks will face off with Posta Rangers at Police Sacco Stadium while Muhoroni Youth will come up against Nzoia Sugar at Muhoroni Stadium.