KCB’s Odhiambo tells Sofapaka to expect fireworks in encounter
By Charles Thuku, January 8, 2020KCB defence kingpin Dennis Odhiambo has told his former employer Sofapaka not to expect any favours when the two sides clash in a midweek Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos this afternoon.
Odhiambo says while he respects Sofapaka, his team-mates are prepared for ‘war’ hence a tough match in the offing.
“This match may be emotional to me as a former player of Sofapaka which was like a family to me, but let it be known that I was brought to KCB to win trophies,” said Odhiambo, who alongside striker Stephen Waruru, will parade against their former team.
Sofapaka and KCB are of the same context of strength which makes the match unpredictable although Odhiambo reckons his team can win with proper planning.
“We will play on the front-foot and are prepared for whatever Sofapaka throw at us. We have analysed the positives and negatives in our past matches and if we can put our act together, this is a match we can win,” he added.
However, KCB will be meeting a Sofapaka team that has just signed 11 new players among them foreigners Jedinak Ameyaw Nana and George Owusu who are said to be among the hottest properties in the Ghanaian youth football ranks.
Sofapaka coach John Baraza believes the new additions might just be the turning point for their season.
“The arrival of the players could be the game-changer and we hope they will steer us to a certain level. We are hoping they suit our playing style,’’ said Baraza.
Elsewhere, Tusker have a chance of dislodging Gor Mahia at the top of the standings when they face Kisumu All Stars in Ruaraka.
A win for Tusker will see them open a two-point gap at the summit although Gor Mahia will be having three matches at hand over the brewers.
Yesterday, Kisumu All Stars sacked coach Henry Omino over poor results and it remains to be seen what is up the sleeves of interim trainer Arthur Apiyo as he seeks to steady the ship of the lakeside team.
At Kasarani Stadium, Bandari, who were recipients of a walk-over from Nzoia Sugar last weekend, train their guns on Kariobangi Sharks in yet another match in which sparks are expected to fly.
Sharks have had a season to forget, sitting 14th on the 17-team table after just one win in 15 matches and coach William Muluya will hope victory against equally struggling Bandari can kick start a positive run in the second leg of the campaign.