Murang’a Seal’s Elvin Barasa and Joseph Omulama challenge Gor Mahia’s Ebenezzer Asifuah at Nyayo Stadium on Tuesday.
Charles Akonnor wants a tighter defence as the champions prepare for Saturday’s clash at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay.
Gor Mahia will chase a second straight SportPesa Premier League victory when they face APS Bomet on Saturday. The defending champions head to Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay after beating Murang’a Seal 4-2 on Tuesday.
However, coach Charles Akonnor wants his players to improve defensively despite their strong attacking start. The champions conceded twice in their opener, giving the technical bench an immediate concern before the 4.15pm kick-off.
Gor Mahia seek better defensive balance
Akonnor welcomed the opening victory and his team’s scoring performance, but stressed the need for greater defensive discipline. He said the side must become more solid and avoid repeatedly giving away goals.
Saturday’s assignment therefore brings a clear challenge: maintain the attacking threat while tightening up at the back. APS Bomet, meanwhile, enter the contest after a goalless draw against Mathare United in their first match.
The champions will start as favourites, although Bomet will seek to frustrate them and secure their first victory. Both teams have points on the board, but only Gor have an opening win to build on.
KCB and Mathare chase first victories
Earlier on Saturday, KCB face Mathare United at Police Sacco Stadium, with kick-off set for 2pm. The bankers opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Nairobi United and now seek their first win.
Mathare also have an opening draw behind them after their stalemate with APS Bomet. While KCB scored twice in their first outing, Mathare will aim to register their first league goal.
Sunday’s programme features three matches, all starting at 3pm. Mara Sugar host Posta Rangers at St Sebastian Park after drawing 2-2 with 3K in their opener.
Posta Rangers, however, need a response after Shabana beat them 1-0. They will seek their first points against a Mara Sugar side also chasing an opening victory.
Homeboyz and Shabana look to build momentum
At Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega Homeboyz welcome Ulinzi Stars after starting with a 1-0 win over newcomers Mombasa United. Another victory would extend their winning start to the campaign.
Ulinzi, by contrast, lost their opener 2-0 to Tusker and will look to recover in Kakamega. The soldiers face opponents who kept a clean sheet in their first match.
Meanwhile, Shabana host Nairobi United at Afraha Stadium in the other Sunday fixture. Shabana bring an opening victory into the encounter, while Nairobi United arrive after sharing four goals with KCB.
The schedule continues on Monday when Mara Sugar host newly promoted Mombasa United at Green Stadium in Awendo. That match starts at 2pm, with Mombasa seeking their first points following defeat to Homeboyz.
Bandari then meet 3K at Mbaraki Sports Club at 4.15pm in Monday’s other fixture. Kenya Police face AFC Leopards at Nyayo National Stadium on Tuesday, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.
