Kenya Police look to extend lead in hockey league

Kenya Police will be looking to move eight points clear at the top of the Kenya Hockey Union (KHU) men's premier league with victories in their two matches this weekend.

The 2013 champions take on United States International University Africa (USIU A) men's team on Saturday evening at City Park Stadium before playing Kenyatta University Vultures on Sunday at the same venue.

Victory in both matches will see them move to 54 points, eight ahead of second placed and defending champions Butali Sugar Warriors who are not in action this weekend.

MAXIMUM POINTS

Police captain Brian Saina has urged his teammates to collect maximum points to enhance their chances of reclaiming the title.

The skipper however noted that the law enforcers will need to be on top of their game to see off the opposition.

"The season is at a critical stage and every game is like a final. We have no option but to win all the games.

Of course it won’t be easy because other teams are equally looking for wins, "Saina told Saturday Nation Sport.

Police scrapped a 1-0 away win against Nakuru Hockey Club last weekend and will look for an improved performance against the university side who lie fourth on the log.

USIU coach Tom Olal expects a tough encounter but believes the pressure will be on Police who are on course for the league title.

"It is a must win match for both sides and that is why it will be closely contested.

We are optimistic of a good result and the lads are fired up," Olal said.

Police won the first leg encounter 3-2 last year and will look to complete the double.

A win for the university side will see them move into third place above Greensharks.

TRICKY ENCOUNTERS

Two-time league champions Strathmore University Gladiators who lie in sixth place have two tricky encounters over the weekend.

They take on Vultures on Saturday afternoon before tackling USIU on Sunday in a university derby.

In another men's encounter this weekend, Western Jaguars take on Nakuru Hockey Club in Kakamega while Mount Kenyatta University take on Multimedia University and Karate Axiom will be up against Wazalendo Youth.

In the women's national league, Strathmore University Scorpions will move two points off league leaders and champions Telkom Orange with a win over USIU Spartans on Saturday afternoon in what should be a cracker.

On Sunday, Sliders take on Kenyatta University Titans at City Park Stadium as the race for second place hots up.