Bandari FC head coach Bernard Mwalala believes his side can overcome Tusker FC and reverse their inconsistent SportPesa League form when the two teams meet at Sebastian Park, Murang’a, on Saturday.
The Dockers head into the clash under pressure after a mixed run of results, but Mwalala insists the fixture offers a chance to reset the season and restore confidence within the squad.
“We know what this match means. It is a big test, but it is also a big opportunity for us,” Mwalala said.
Tusker sit sixth on the log with 24 points, four places and four points above Bandari, who are 11th, making the Sebastian Park encounter pivotal for both sides. For the Brewers, victory would keep them in touch with the league leaders. For Bandari, a positive result would narrow the gap and ease pressure as the season enters a demanding phase.
“These are the kinds of games that define your season. A win changes the mood, the confidence and the direction,” Mwalala added.
Despite recent struggles, the coach is confident his team is close to converting effort into results.
“We have not been poor in terms of effort. The boys are working hard, but football sometimes punishes you when you don’t take your chances,” he said.
Mwalala believes mental sharpness will be key.
“We need to manage moments better. One mistake can cost you, especially against teams like Tusker,” he noted. He added that facing a high-profile opponent often sharpens focus: “When you play a team like Tusker, everyone is alert. That intensity helps.”
The neutral venue in Murang’a presents its own challenges. Sebastian Park has produced unpredictable results this season, often neutralising differences in form and reputation.
“We have prepared for the conditions. The pitch demands discipline and quick decision-making,” said Mwalala. “You cannot play one style only. You must read the game and adjust.”
Bandari have received a timely boost with the arrival of midfielder Herrit Mungai from Mathare United.
“Mungai gives us depth and balance. He is disciplined and understands defensive responsibility,” said Mwalala. “He reads the game well, which helps us protect our backline and build attacks properly. He can play in different roles, which is very important at this stage of the season.”
Addressing Bandari’s inconsistency, Mwalala highlighted midfield battles as a key area.
“We must control the middle of the pitch. If you lose control there, everything becomes difficult. When the midfield is stable, the forwards play with freedom. That is what we want,” he explained.
Training this week has focused on compactness, transitions, and discipline.
“We want to be solid without the ball and purposeful with it,” Mwalala said. He also acknowledged Tusker’s threat in transition: “They punish mistakes. You switch off for one second, and they hurt you. We will not just sit back; we want to play our football, but with responsibility. Everyone must do their job, from the front to the back.”
While Saturday’s match carries significance, Mwalala stressed that Bandari’s objectives extend beyond a single result.
“This is one match in a long journey. But it can set the tone. There are many points to play for. What matters is how you finish,” he said.
Optimistic about his squad, Mwalala added, “I believe in this group. They have character. This is our moment to respond. We want to show progress.”
For the Dockers, victory at Sebastian Park would be more than three points—it would signal renewed belief, structure, and momentum.
“We want to turn our season around, and it starts with performances like this,” Mwalala concluded.
by TONY MBALLA
