Chipo confident Murang’a SEAL will avoid FKF-PL axe

Last weekend, the Murang’a-based outfit earned a crucial point in a goalless draw against Kariobangi Sharks.

It was Chipo’s first League match at the helm and his second in charge overall, having guided SEAL to a dominant 5-1 win over Kibera in the FKF Cup Round of 16 a fortnight ago.

Reflecting on the draw with Sharks, Chipo expressed satisfaction with his team’s growing confidence.

“I was impressed with how the boys played. We’ve had a tendency to concede early, which makes it difficult to recover. But I told them if we can’t score, let’s not concede — and they followed the instructions,” Chipo explained.

The Premier League winning tactician with Ulinzi Stars in 2003, 2004 and 2005, believes his squad is beginning to find its rhythm and is confident they can pick up crucial points, starting with their next match against Posta Rangers.

“I’m seeing the hunger in my players — the same hunger that got us that big win in the FKF Cup. If we carry that into the league, I believe we’ll get all three points against Posta Rangers,” he said.

This is SEAL’s second season in the top flight. They made their FKF-PL debut in 2023/24, finishing 13th with 38 points.

Despite their current struggles, Chipo is adamant that survival is within reach, as he also calls on the club’s supporters to rally behind them during this crucial period.

“We’ve spoken with the players, and we’ve agreed that seven games are enough to save our season. The fight starts now — against Posta Rangers,” he emphasized.

“I urge our fans to continue supporting us, not just at home but also during away matches. Their presence lifts the players and gives us the energy to fight on,” Chipo appealed.

Chipo, who holds a CAF A diploma, brings a wealth of experience to SEAL. He previously served as assistant coach for Harambee Stars in 2008 and 2011, had a stint with AFC Leopards in 2014, and coached in Tanzania.

As the relegation battle intensifies, all eyes will be on Chipo to see if he can work his magic and steer Murang’a SEAL to safety, restoring faith among the fans and securing another season in Kenya’s top flight.

With just seven matches remaining, Murang’a SEAL are 17th on the log with 26 points from 27 matches, two points above bottom-placed Nairobi City Stars.