Bandari assistant coach Siwa warns KPL title race still open

The Mombasa-based side currently sit tenth on the Kenyan Premier League table with 23 points from 16 matches, ten points adrift of leaders Gor Mahia.

Bandari are currently enjoying an impressive run of form under head coach Bernard Mwalala, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches with three consecutive wins and two draws.

Speaking to the media during a lively training session at Mbaraki Stadium, Siwa brushed off the 10-point gap separating Bandari from league leaders Gor Mahia, insisting the deficit is far from insurmountable.

“Ten points are not many games — it’s just about three matches,” said Siwa.

“Our target is to be at the top, but we are taking it game by game. Right now, our focus is on Sharks, Police and Shabana FC. If we get good results from these fixtures, we can put pressure on the teams above us, and we are confident we can get there.”

The Dockers head into Saturday’s home clash against Kariobangi Sharks buoyed by the vital away victory over the Brewers in Murang’a, a result that underlined the team’s growing confidence and resilience.

Siwa revealed that tactical improvements have played a key role in the recent upturn in form.

“All the players are psyched up after the away win and are working hard to earn a place in the starting eleven. That kind of competition is healthy for the growth of the team,” he added.

Striker Alvin Ngoto has also urged fans to rally behind the team by turning up in large numbers at Mbaraki Stadium to provide crucial support as Bandari chase maximum points.

“Our new coach came in and brought us together — we are now one united team, and that’s why the results are coming,” said Ngoto. “I urge our fans to come out in large numbers and push us game by game. Our first target is to break into the top five, then we can plan for the top spot.”

Bandari FC have further strengthened their squad with two new additions. Goalkeeper Joseph Ochuka has returned to the Dockers after a spell at Tusker FC, while striker Frank Ouya has joined from Nairobi United.