Ojienda confident Shabana will shake off slow start

Shabana FC head coach Robert Ojienda is adamant his side will turn a corner from their slow start to the 2021/22 National Super League (NSL) season after back-to-back draws in their first two games of the season.

The Gusii stadium-based side failed to register a win in their second outing of the season after settling for a 1-1 draw against Zoo Kericho at the Awendo Green Stadium on Saturday.

After a failed title bid last season, the Glamour boys embarked on a retooling mission in the off-season, and the seasoned tactician is confident his team will come good as the new season takes shape.

“Well, we have had a slow start, but I can’t lament so much about it because we all understand that the NSL league is very competitive this season, more so after seasoned teams joined us from the Premier League,” he said.

Having conceded just a goal in two matches, Ojienda is adamant a strong defence is key in their quest to earn promotion to the top flight league.

“I am not worried so much about our current form because we have made notable strides towards being a decent side in the division. Our ambition was to build our team identity on a strong defense which I am happy about as well as improving greatly on that from.” He said.

Ojienda has however questioned the level of officiating in the second-tier league after their second goal against Zoo ruled out by an offside decision.

“Everyone who watched the game was not satisfied with the decision because there is no way a square ball can be ruled as an offside. These basic interpretations are critical to every team that plays in the division.

The federation should ensure that referees are held accountable for the decisions they make on the pitch as that is the surest way of ensuring the game's development.” Ojienda said.

Shabana will go all out for victory when they host Coast Stima at the Awendo Green Stadium on Friday.