Mara Sugar on the brink of FKF Premier League promotion as Silibwet fight to dodge relegation

©Mara Sugar

Mara Sugar on the brink of FKF Premier League promotion as Silibwet fight to dodge relegation

Festus Chuma 12:05 - 08.06.2024

Record-breaking Mara Sugar aim to extend NSL lead as relegation-threatened Silibwet Leons battle financial woes and looming drop.

National Super League (NSL) action intensifies as the league enters week 35 with Mara Sugar poised to set a record while Silibwet Leons grapple with the looming threat of relegation.

The focus this weekend is sharply divided between the jubilation of potential promotions and the desperation of relegation battles.

Silibwet Leons, currently at the bottom of the NSL table with 22 points, are facing a critical period as they head into their remaining four matches of the season.

The team manager Eric Rono has highlighted the severity of their situation but maintained a hopeful tone about their survival prospects.

"We have tough fixtures ahead, starting with the 'big boys of NSL,' Mara Sugar, on Saturday. We also have to play Naivas, Dimba Patriots, and Nairobi United. However, we are known for achieving good results against the big teams," Rono stated as per Citizen Digital.

"I am asking the fans to rally behind the team. All is not lost, and I promise them that Silibwet Leons will not be relegated, Inshallah."

Rono also voiced concerns about the team's financial difficulties, which have significantly hampered their performance.

"We are in a tough scenario with attending fixtures away. Players sometimes go without food on match days and are stranded away from home due to lack of transport. This has affected us this season," he explained, calling on well-wishers to aid the team as they strive to avoid relegation.

Meanwhile, league leaders Mara Sugar are on the verge of an unprecedented achievement.

A victory over Silibwet could see them surpass the 80-point mark, a feat no team has managed in the NSL since the pandemic.

Mara Sugar’s assistant coach Godfrey Naibei is optimistic about their chances, reflecting on their past successes against Silibwet, including a 4-1 win earlier in the season.

"Our team has not tasted defeat in the last ten league matches, and we aim to continue this streak," he said.

Other key matches to watch include the Naivas vs. Mully Children Family (MCF) FC clash at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, which holds implications for Mathare United's promotion hopes.

Should MCF secure a win Mathare would clinch a return to the FKF Premier League.

Mombasa Stars and Kibera Black Stars are set to face off at Serani Sports Club with both teams vying for a respectable top-ten finish this season.

Elsewhere, Kisumu All Stars hopes to extend their dominance over Vihiga Bullets as they meet at Moi Stadium.

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