Why Shabana Boss Peter Okidi is Confident Charges Can Lift Title

Shabana head coach Peter Okidi has expressed strong belief that his charges can go all the way and lift the SportPesa League title this season after their 1-0 win over Bandari in Mombasa last Sunday.

The Glamour Boys secured maximum points at Mbaraki Stadium thanks to Brian Michira’s composed finish in the second half, a result that sent them top of the table after just three rounds. 

Okidi, who took charge of the Kisii-based outfit in January and guided them to a respectable fifth-place finish last season, said the early momentum is proof that his players have fully bought into the long-term vision.

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“The boys’ energy was on top and I am grateful we finished without injuries, and I also want to thank the fans and management for the kind of support they have given us,” Okidi told Azam TV shortly after the match. 

“When we started the league, there were things we spoke about, and the whole aim for the season was to win this title, not just to participate. 

“For us, we have to stay humble in God’s eyes and keep working hard. We will go back to the drawing board, continue working and hope we get fantastic results.”

The coach revealed part of Sunday’s tactical plan was to conserve energy in the humid coastal conditions and then increase the tempo after the break. 

“Because of the altitude, we wanted to preserve our energy for the second half and it worked. It was a very good result for us,” he said.

Shabana’s positive start to the season has set the stage for what is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive title races in recent years. 

Kenya Police are set to begin their title defence against Ulinzi Stars, while Tusker have started badly. Gor Mahia also bounced back from an opening defeat against Bidco and are on course for redemption . 

For Okidi, however, Shabana’s unity and hunger could be the difference in upsetting the traditional giants.

“The belief is there,” he added. “We know the league is long and very tough, but the way the boys are responding gives me confidence. If we keep the same mentality, we can compete with anyone.”

With tricky fixtures against mid-table sides and eventual showdowns against Gor Mahia, Tusker, and Police to come, Okidi knows consistency will be crucial.