SS Assad plot to run riot against Kisumu All Stars in NSL clash

National Super League (NSL) side, SS Assad, are optimistic of returning to winning ways when they welcome Kisumu All Stars at the Ukunda Showground on Sunday.

Despite registering a good start this season, the Kwale-based team has not won their last two league matches - registering a draw against APS Bomet at home and falling heavily to Migori Youth 4-1 away in Migori last weekend.

According to head coach, Phelix Ogutu, fatigue and poor travel plans to Migori costed the team.

“We had hopes of getting a win away at Migori but we lost, we learnt that we should have traveled early and got enough rest. All players were fatigued and definitely there was no shortcut of getting a win,” said Ogutu.

Despite the loss, the tactician says that they are now back to Ukunda and ready to take on Kisumu All Stars.

“We have studied their way of play. I know their strengths and now we have changed our system of play to counter them and get the maximum points at home,” noted an optimistic Ogutu.

“We have some of our key players injured including Rajab Hassan and Jamal Matajiri, who is out for 2 weeks, while Rashid Said is recovering. David Bondora will be out for a month but I’m sure their replacements will work hard for the maximum points,” he added.

Assad are 3rd on the NSL table with 10 points after six outings, registering three wins, a draw and two losses. 

Assad’s neighbors, Mombasa Stars, are seeking to register their first win of the season on Saturday when they host Kibera Black Stars at Serani Sports Grounds.

The Mombasa side has lost four matches so far with only a point from their clash against MOFA FC.

Head Coach Hussein "Madaga" Mohammed now believes it is time to change tactics and start winning matches.

“We have been playing pretty well but luck is not on our side, I have a strong feeling our first win will come on Saturday against Kibera Black Stars,” averred Mohammed.