'Surviving relegation with Shabana is better than winning the league with Tusker' - Sammy Pamzo Omollo

© Shabana FC.

'Surviving relegation with Shabana is better than winning the league with Tusker' - Sammy Pamzo Omollo

Festus Chuma 19:36 - 22.06.2024

With the season finale looming Tore Bobe are aiming to secure league safety against Murang’a Seal amid a tight relegation battle.

Shabana FC head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo has revealed that beating the drop this season will be a better achievement than his title-winning campaign with Tusker back in 2011.

This comes ahead of their critical final match of the season this Sunday, which could determine their fate.

Positioned 15th on the league table with 35 points, Shabana finds itself in a precarious but hopeful situation to avoid the relegation playoffs.

The Glamour Boys, who returned to the league this season after a 17-year absence, now face a pivotal moment.

They are just two points ahead of their nearest rivals, Sofapaka, who are in the 16th spot.

The upcoming match against the 13th placed Murang’a Seal could seal their fate, with Shabana needing just one point to stay safe.

However, the situation is tense as a loss, coupled with a win for Sofapaka against the already relegated Nzoia Sugar, would push Shabana into a less favorable position.

"There is no NSL we are going to, believe you me. As a matter of fact, I have already started planning for next season," Omollo stated confidently as per Citizen Digital.

The resilience of Glamour Boys has been tested throughout the season, largely due to the lack of a permanent home ground.

They have played 'home' games across various locations including Nairobi, Kisumu, and Homabay, which has presented unique challenges.

Despite these obstacles, Omollo believes that the team's recent performances have prepared them well for the final clash.

Shabana recently secured crucial victories against AFC Leopards and Bidco, which Omollo pointed to as evidence of their readiness and momentum.

"Those were very crucial games for us to stay in the league," he emphasized.

In a season fraught with challenges, the importance of avoiding relegation has become a source of pride for Omollo, who has previously tasted championship success.

"Right now I am fighting for pride. I won the league with Tusker. At this point, staying in the league is better than winning the league," he asserted.

Meanwhile, Sofapaka who clinched the title in their debut season in 2009, find themselves in a familiar struggle.

Having fought off relegation in the last three seasons, they face an uphill battle against Nzoia Sugar.

A win for them is crucial, as anything less could spell disaster, depending on Shabana's result.

The last day of the league is set to be a dramatic one with the two teams at the bottom fighting tooth and nail to remain in Kenya’s top football tier.

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