Boost for Bandari as Nyamawi, Ngeleka return ahead of Gor Mahia clash

The Dockers have endured a winless start to their campaign, drawing 0-0 away to AFC Leopards before being held to a 1-1 draw by 3K FC at Mbaraki Sports Ground earlier this week.

Head coach Charles Okere is, however, confident his side can rise to the occasion against a Gor Mahia team that has won its opening two league matches, insisting Bandari are ready for the challenge.

“We are a big team, and Gor Mahia are also a big team. We respect them, but it is 11 against 11. Bandari versus Gor Mahia is always a big match, and we are going there to fight for maximum points,” said Okere.

The tactician believes his team is making steady progress despite the two draws.

“I can say we are progressing well as a team. We started with a goalless draw against AFC Leopards and then, unfortunately, drew 1-1 against 3K FC. Now the journey towards our first win continues. I am happy with how our players are progressing,” he added.

Bandari have received a timely boost ahead of the crucial encounter with the return of Nyamawi, Keith Imbali and goalkeeper Alain Ngeleka to the squad.

Nyamawi missed the opening two matches after falling ill, while Ngeleka had been sidelined by a knee injury. Their return provides Okere with additional options as the coastal outfit prepares to face the record Kenyan champions.

Nyamawi is particularly eager to make up for lost time after an injury-disrupted previous season.

“We have played two matches and, honestly, we are disappointed because we have drawn both at home and away. However, we are heading into the Gor Mahia match with our heads held high and are ready to fight for maximum points,” said Nyamawi.

“I missed the first two league matches, and I urge my fans to pray for me to have a great, injury-free season, unlike last season when I was completely sidelined by injury. For now, I am back,” he added.

Saturday's encounter is scheduled for a 7:00pm kick-off under floodlights, with Okere hoping his team will get an opportunity to train under similar conditions in Nairobi ahead of the match.

“We are ready for a floodlit match, and we hope that once we arrive in Nairobi, the team will have an opportunity to train under the lights. All in all, we are ready for the encounter,” said Okere.

Meanwhile, Bandari goalkeeper trainer Razak Siwa has expressed confidence that the Dockers can secure maximum points against Gor Mahia away from home, urging the club's supporters to turn up in numbers and provide the team with the backing it needs.

“Last season, we drew both home and away against them, while in the previous season we beat them. We are therefore not afraid; we are confident of getting maximum points in Nairobi,” said Siwa.