William Muluya poised for GOtv Shield glory

Kariobangi Sharks coach William Muluhya gives instruction to his players during a training session on October 18, 2017 at Utalii Grounds ahead of the GOtv Shield final match against against AFC Leopards on October 20, 2017. PHOTO | CHRIS OMOLLO |

What you need to know:

  • Sharks have scored seven goals and conceded four in three league games staged at the venue.
  • Sharks beat Mathare United 3-0 and drew 2-2 with Posta Rangers and Chemelil Sugar at Kasarani. They have scored 15 goals and let in only three in the Shield campaign.
  • Lead striker Masud Juma passed a late fitness test and is available for selection while promising left back Bolton Omwenga is still sidelined.

William “Kanu” Muluya’s transformation to a full-time coach has seen him guide Kariobangi Sharks to an impressive run in the SportPesa Premier League where the debutants are currently lying seventh on the table.

He has carried on the good job in the domestic competition where the Sharks now stand just one step from creating a piece of history as winners of their first ever annual knock-out diadem.

He is confident that his charges can carry on the spirit against a team that has scored 27 goals and conceded three in five games. Ironically, statistically, Sharks have an upper hand with an unbeaten record against Ingwe this season.

“We might be the favourites on paper but remember this is a final where the winner takes it all. We’ve no burden because this is just a game like any other. We decided to prepare normally due to the congestion of fixtures we’ve had to honour recently,” said Muluya.

Unlike their opponents who pitched camp for two days in Machakos and shifted to a Nairobi hotel on the eve of the grand finale, Sharks maintained their humble profile, players commuting daily from their respective homes to train at Utalii grounds along Thika superhighway.

“The trophy might matter and of course qualifying for continentals but that can’t come if mentally you aren’t prepared. I am optimistic we can carry the day,” he said.

He added: “Psychologically we are okay because we play at Kasarani, a ground my players have mastered so well.”

Sharks have scored seven goals and conceded four in three league games staged at the venue.

Sharks beat Mathare United 3-0 and drew 2-2 with Posta Rangers and Chemelil Sugar at Kasarani. They have scored 15 goals and let in only three in the Shield campaign.

Lead striker Masud Juma passed a late fitness test and is available for selection while promising left back Bolton Omwenga is still sidelined.