Mathare United, freshly promoted back to the FKF Premier League after a year in the National Super League, are gearing up for their second match of the season with a renewed sense of purpose. Their campaign began with a challenging 0-4 loss to AFC Leopards, but the team is determined to turn their fortunes around as they prepare for an away fixture against Kakamega Homeboyz on Sunday 15 September in Mumias.Head coach John Kamau, who took the helm midway through pre-season, is optimistic about the team’s prospects following the international break. The adjournment has been crucial for Mathare, allowing them time to regroup and make strategic adjustments. ##NAJAVA_MECA_8325968##“For each and every coach who has a plan, the FIFA window is always factored in. During the preseason, we anticipated the break and had a strategy in place. Joining the team in the third week of pre-season, we concentrated on areas needing improvement, even before the window opened,” said Kamau.Kamau acknowledged that the heavy defeat to AFC Leopards highlighted several weaknesses within the squad, particularly in terms of mental resilience. “We didn’t deserve to lose with such a big margin. The game exposed areas where we needed to improve, especially in our mental approach. We’ve worked diligently on the mental, physical, and tactical aspects of our game. Manchester United star Andre Onana scared of Harambee Stars ahead of October AFCON qualifiersThe international break gave us an opportunity to reassess and strengthen these areas, and I believe we have a better team now compared to our first match.”Kamau’s confidence is boosted by the club’s new signings, who have been integrated into the squad since the transfer window closed. Notable additions include veteran midfielder Kevin Kimani, who returns on loan from AFC Leopards. Kimani, previously named the KPL MVP in 2011, is back for his third stint with Mathare. REVEALED: Millions owed to Harambee Stars coach in salary arrearsThe club has also welcomed experienced goalkeeper Robert Mboya, who rejoined the team as a free agent. Mboya’s return marks his third stint with Mathare, adding valuable experience to the squad.Additionally, striker Christopher Koloti and goalkeeper Michael Wanyika have been acquired on season-long loans, bolstering Mathare’s attacking and defensive options. The team has also signed several other players from the National Super League, Division One and Division Two leagues, including Dennis Ng’ang’a, Erickson Mulu from KCB, Sammy Imbuye from Posta Rangers, Jephiter Maraga from West Kenya FC, Dennis Kioko from Kayole Youngsters, Harryson Lutta from Soy United, Hakimu Msami and Daniel Mukok from Mombasa Elite, Derrick Anami and Brian Ouru from Naivas FC.##NAJAVA_MECA_8325948##Kamau emphasized the importance of motivating his players, many of whom are new to the Premier League. “It’s a challenge to develop players from different levels, but it’s rewarding to see them grow,” he said. “As a technical team, our focus is on motivating the players and helping them adapt to the demands of the Premier League. We are confident that Mathare will be competitive this season. A single positive result can set the tone for the rest of the campaign.”
