Migori Youth FC will host Wazito FC in the first leg of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) relegation playoffs at their Migori Stadium backyard on Saturday afternoon with stakes so high.The aggregate winner of the two-legged affair would have washed their hands clean, ready to dine with the big boys of the FKFPL in the 2023-24 season starting in August. Migori Youth booked their place in the playoffs by virtue of finishing third in the just-ended National Super League (NSL) season, while Wazito were condemned to confirm their top-flight credentials after finishing third from bottom in the FKFPL over the same period. Armed with the FKFPL experience, Wazito coach Charles Odera is confident that they are equal to the task.##NAJAVA_MECA_7372703##”We want to have a head start in the playoffs and to do that, we’ll have to go for a win in Migori,” the former APS Bomet FC coach told Mozzart Sport. Yet, he is cautious not to underestimate his opponent, “they’ve earned their place in the playoffs so we cannot afford to brush them off.”To be in shape for the duel and without competitive action, Wazito played three friendlies, including one against Kisumu Day High School. “We’ve had three weeks to prepare and I believe we’re ready,” Odera declared.Starting the first leg away from home, the former Chemelil Sugar FC player says has no added advantage to them, conversely, they will have to silence the home fans.”The fans will be rooting for the home side, and we expect the atmosphere to be hostile, but we’re going to silence them and play our game.”On their part, to have a feel of premier league action and gauge what to expect on Saturday, Migori Youth played a friendly against a combined side of former premier league players, winning 2-1.Samoa presents first test for Kenya Chipu as World Rugby U20 Trophy gets underway”It also served as an encouragement for the boys, playing against people who have been at that level, was a real motivation,” Migori Youth coach Kevin Oluoch told Mozzart Sport. Starting at home, he says, will be an advantage to them. “Making amends at home before the home fans after faltering away, can come with a lot of pressure, so it’s better to start strong at home then finish the job away.”With a perfect record of 14 wins and three draws this season at home, the former Gor Mahia defender is buoyant of Migori Youth’s chances.”Our aim is not to lose at any cost; but even as we go for victory, we will be vigilant at the back not to concede,” Oluoch said. The second leg of the encounter is scheduled for a week later at the dreaded Muhoroni Stadium, Muhoroni. “Muhoroni will be tough so we have to do the job here at home,” he added.
