John Baraza explains Bandari's woeful run of form since Gor Mahia win

John Baraza explains Bandari's woeful run of form since Gor Mahia win

Mark Kinyanjui 09:38 - 17.05.2024

Bandari coach John Baraza has revealed what has gone wrong for his team since their win over Gor Mahia in March, a poor run that has seen them collect just four points from a possible 18.

Bandari head coach John Baraza has revealed the reasons Bandari have faltered in the race for the Premier League title since beating Gor Mahia in March.

The former Sofapaka and Harambee Stars striker, who took permanent charge of the club earlier this year, had led them through a strong performance in November and December, positioning them as serious contenders for the league title.

A significant victory over Gor Mahia at the Mbaraki Grounds in March bolstered their status as title challengers. However, since the international break in April, Bandari's performances have plummeted.

They have suffered defeats to Ulinzi Stars and AFC Leopards, and managed only draws against Bidco, KCB, Posta Rangers, and most recently, Muhoroni Youth.

This downturn has left Bandari in fifth place with 47 points, edged out of fourth place by AFC Leopards on goal difference after their win over Kenya Police. 

Baraza has taken full responsibility for the team's poor run, acknowledging the immense pressure he is under to restore stability.

“When the team is having a run like this, you will definitely be under pressure. When you don’t get the intended results, then you will have to ask yourself questions and generally be bothered,” Baraza told Mozzart Sport.

Between November and March, Bandari had become defensively solid and particularly effective on the counter-attack, a strategy that consistently delivered goals and crucial points. Baraza now concedes that this approach has lost its effectiveness.

“A few months ago, we were working on the defence. We thought after fixing the defence we will no longer have problems but that is not the case. We have a new challenge that we are working hard to solve. Hopefully, the strikers will take more responsibility in the remainder of the term,” Baraza said.

Despite having three capable attackers, several creative wingers and attacking midfielders, Bandari have only scored three goals in the last six matches. 

“We have not been converting our chances. The team has been creating and playing well but having the ball in the net has been the challenge,” said the former Sofapaka boss.

Baraza’s acknowledgment of the tactical missteps and his commitment to addressing the scoring issues will be crucial as Bandari aims to regain their form and finish the season on a high note.

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