Why Shabana is struggling in FKF Premier League, Omollo explains

Former Gor Mahia coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo (pictured) has explained why Shabana FC are currently posting a string of poor results in the FKF Premier League.

The Kisii-based outfit earned promotion to the top tier at the start of the current campaign but they have failed to impress despite enjoying a huge following, and are now placed 14th on the 18-team heading into the two-week FIFA international break.

Pamzo, who previously played for Gor Mahia and was most recently the head coach of Kenya Police, Tore Bobe’s decision to do away with some of the players who helped them return to the league after 17 years in the cold, could be the problem affecting their results.

“I am very happy for Shabana, and I am happy for them because I like community clubs but in my honest opinion I would not want them to be relegated,” said Omollo, adding: “The huge mistake they made when they got promoted was they moved to drop some of the players (who played a key role to have them in the league) and recruited new ones, which means they have taken time to settle.”

Omollo compared Shabana to fellow promoters Murang’a Seal FC, saying their display has been superb because they kept their squad intact after earning promotion to the league for the first time. Murang’a are currently sitting third on the log with 21 points, the same number as second-placed champions Gor Mahia, and one fewer than leaders Posta Rangers.

“If you compare Shabana and Murang’a, who were promoted together, what the latter did was to drop a few players (at least three) and these did not unsettle the playing unit, and that is why they are doing well in the league than Shabana.”

Omollo further pointed out that for Shabana to turn around their fortunes; they will have to hit the next transfer window for quality signings.

“For them (Shabana) to get their performances to a good level, they must be involved when the transfer window opens (that is a must and there is no shortcut), they need experienced players who can help them improve on their results and with a coach, who can handle pressure, then the new signings will get the confidence to do the job,” added Omollo.

Shabana have managed two wins, four draws, and five defeats and have already made changes to their technical bench by firing coach Sammy Okoth and replacing him with Oscar Kambona on an interim basis.