Migori Youth have turned to experience as they push for promotion to the SportPesa League, bringing in former Mara Sugar striker Noah Ng’iendo and returning midfielder Yusuf Ochieng.
Ng’iendo, who recently featured for the Michael Olunga Foundation Academy (MOFA) in the National Super League, adds firepower to the Migori-based side.
At the same time, Ochieng returns after helping Migori Youth contest the promotion/relegation play-off last season. The club has also strengthened its defence by signing centre-back Vincent Wanga from MOFA, who has already scored twice in as many games.
Coach Sammy Otulo said the focus on experience is aimed at handling the pressure in the league’s crucial stages. “We went for experienced players who will help us when the league hits the homestretch.
You need players who can handle the pressure when targeting qualification,” Otulo said. He added that Migori Youth is looking to make additional signings before the transfer window closes next month and vowed to lead the team to the SportPesa League.
This weekend, Migori Youth face a tricky tie against Soy United at Eldoret Showground. Soy United coach Jeffers Odongo has promised a tough contest.
“It will be a tough and entertaining game. We will go all out for maximum points. We have a good team and we are ready,” Odongo said.
Soy United is on a five-game winning streak. The NSL first leg concludes this weekend, with promotion battles intensifying.
Three teams will now gain automatic promotion to the SportPesa League after the Football Kenya Federation scrapped the promotion/relegation play-off. Migori Youth lead the standings with 36 points, followed by Mombasa United (34) and MOFA (32).
Saturday fixtures
Kisumu All Stars vs Mwatate United, Moi Stadium, Kisumu
Nairobi City Stars vs Naivas FC, Gems Cambridge
Equity Bank vs Nzoia Sugar, Mashuru Complex
MOFA vs 3K FC, Mumboha Grounds
Sunday fixtures
Gucha Stars vs MCF FC, Gusii Stadium
Kabati Youth vs Mombasa United, Thika Stadium
Luanda Villa vs Fortune Sacco, Mumboha Grounds
Darajani Gogo vs FC Talanta, Vapor Grounds Ngong
Vihiga United vs Kibera Black Stars, Moi Stadium, Kisumu
by ANGWENYI GICHANA
