Habib Hussein wants his charges to exercise mental fortitude in a bid to retain their title, terming every clash a match like no other.
Kenya Police assistant coach Habib Hussein thinks newly promoted KISPED queens will be a considerable opponent this season despite his side's 3-0 win in the Kenya Women's Premier League season opener on Saturday at Kasarani Stadium.
The newbies had a cruel welcome to life in the women's top-flight league as goals from Lydia Akoth and Rebecca Okwaro's brace sealed the victory for the defending champions after surviving an early scare.
"Congratulations to the opponent for making life difficult for my team. Honestly, KISPED look prepared, and they will be a force to reckon with because they have already proven that they mean business just in their first match. Do not be flattered by this scoreline," Hussein, who takes charge as head coach on a temporary basis because of the enforced absence of head coach Beldine Odemba, said.
Odemba is with Junior Starlets, ramping up their preparation for the U-17 Women's World Cup in the Dominican Republic.
Hussein wants his charges to exercise mental fortitude in a bid to retain their title, terming every clash a match like no other.
"We have to be ready both physically and psychologically. We anticipated that the games will be tougher this season, so every match is a final. We cannot predict how the team will perform in subsequent fixtures, but the ultimate goal is for the girls doing better than last season."
Akoth, who was named woman of the match said; "Thank you to our fans for naming me Woman of the match. Your support means so much and will motivate the entire team to work harder in upcoming matches".