All roads will lead to Kasarani Stadium tomorrow when AFC Leopards take on bitter rivals Gor Mahia in the 97th FKF Premier League Mashemeji Derby.

However, the derby comes at a time when Leopards are struggling to find their balance in the top-flight as they are still winless from the last five matches played so far this season. Under Tom Juma, who was handed the mantle on a permanent basis following the exit of Belgian Patrick Aussems, Ingwe have managed four draws and suffered one defeat.

Meanwhile, their rivals K’Ogalo have been blowing hot and cold and although they are still unbeaten, they have managed two wins and secured three draws. Ingwe will, however, be boosted by the fact they won the last derby 2-1, a win that saw them end a seven-year wait without beating K’Ogalo.

Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry has warned his players against underrating Ingwe and urged his defenders to avoid committing simple mistakes in the derby. “That [defensive resoluteness] is something we are working on ahead of the AFC game. We have spoken to the players about that, and we are working on that, but we need to get better,” said McKinstry, adding: “We need to cut out those simple mistakes. We did not really have those (mistakes) last season; we had 20 clean sheets last season. We have only kept one clean sheet this season, which is not good enough.”

After going for the first three matches without scoring a goal, Ingwe have now scored in back-to-back matches – a 2-2 draw against Kenya Police and a 1-1 draw against Shabana something assistant coach Fred Ambani believes will spur his team on against K’Ogalo.

“We were missing the goals but they have started to come, and it is good to head into the derby with the mentality we can now score goals, so my players will be boosted with the fact we have been on target in the last two matches and must work hard to score against Gor and win the game,” said Ambani.

Clifton Miheso could most likely lead Ingwe against his former club, with Cliff Nyakeya expected to play a huge role from the wings while Kevin Kimani could get the chance to marshal the midfield. K’Ogalo’s attack will be spearheaded by Benson Omalla, who has already scored four times this season, assisted by Ugandan import Rogers Mugisha.

Before the derby on Saturday, the league will continue with matchday six fixtures tomorrow, with leaders Posta Rangers taking on Nzoia Sugar, Kakamega Homeboyz will be at home against FC Talanta while Tusker will come up against promoted Shabana, who are seeking their first win.

On Saturday, Ezekiel Akwana will take charge of struggling Sofapaka for the first time when they face Murang’a Seal FC, Ulinzi Stars will come up against Kariobangi Sharks while Nairobi City Stars host Kenya Police. On Monday, two matches will be on the card – Muhoroni Youth against KCB and Bidco United against Bandari FC.