For the second season running, National Super League (NSL) side Naivas FC are once again knocking on the doors of the FKF Premier League, determined to secure promotion at the second time of asking.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe Shoppers are set for another tense two-legged Promotion/Relegation Playoff showdown, this time against Posta Rangers—echoing last year’s heartbreak when Naivas came agonizingly close, only to fall short against Sofapaka.Why former Spurs midfielder warned teammates against going close to Victor WanyamaA 2-0 aggregate defeat, courtesy of goals from Jacob Onyango and Andre Kalama, saw the 2009 Premier League champions retain their top-flight status while denying Naivas a historic leap.A year later, after yet another strong campaign in the just-concluded NSL season, Naivas have earned a second bite at the cherry.##NAJAVA_MECA_8992123##Under the guidance of head coach Elvis Ayany, Naivas finished in third place, tied on 62 points with Darajani Gogo, but edged their rivals to the playoff spot by virtue of a superior goal difference.Posta Rangers, meanwhile, head into the playoffs bruised after a turbulent FKFPL season that saw them finish 16th in the 18-team table.Kenyan referee to officiate Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup clashA 1-1 draw with Bandari on the final day of the campaign condemned the Mailmen to the playoff route, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter with a hungry and highly motivated Naivas side.Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Naivas forward Kharisa Ponda shared the team’s refined approach and their renewed sense of purpose.##NAJAVA_MECA_8992117##“Last time out, we were punished by our own mistakes,” said Ponda, who previously featured for Sofapaka. “This time, we are keen on limiting errors and making the most of even the half-chances we get. That tactical discipline will be crucial against a solid, seasoned team like Rangers.”Kenyan winger secures promotion to Spanish second tier with Real Sociedad BPonda, one of Naivas’ most experienced campaigners, also acknowledged the rare opportunity of getting back-to-back shots at promotion—something he believes the team must capitalise on.“In life, opportunities like these don’t come often. We are lucky and favoured to be here again, and we are determined to seize it. The goal is simple: win both legs and earn promotion,” he added.##NAJAVA_MECA_8992145##Naivas will host the first leg on Monday, 28 June at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos, before travelling to Murang’a Seal’s home turf for the decisive return leg on Saturday, 2 July.
