Kisumu All Starlets vow to fight to safeguard top-tier status despite financial difficulties

Kisumu All Starlets are fighting to preserve their place in the Kenya Women's Premier League after financial constraints forced them to miss last weekend’s away fixture against Zetech Sparks.

Failure to travel and honour the match saw Zetech Sparks awarded a walkover victory and maximum points, further compounding All Starlets’ difficult campaign.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, head coach Juma Said attributed the setback to persistent financial challenges that have disrupted the team’s operations throughout the season.

“This club depends on well-wishers to operate. We are forced to use personal resources to ensure key logistics are met, but this time around we were in a very bad situation,” he said.

The missed fixture marked the second time Kisumu All Starlets have failed to travel for a league match, placing them on the brink of automatic expulsion. League regulations stipulate that any team that misses three fixtures faces removal from the competition.

Despite mounting pressure, Said remains optimistic the team can overcome the hurdles. He noted that the remaining fixtures are relatively close to home, easing travel logistics and reducing costs. The club has also launched a fundraising drive to cover essential expenses, including transport, accommodation, and player welfare.

“We are knocking on doors, and the remaining matches are not too far from home. We will only travel to Nairobi to face Police Bullets and to Bungoma. The remaining fixtures will be staged at home, so we are hopeful we will honour them,” he added.

On the pitch, Kisumu All Starlets are struggling near the foot of the table, sitting second from bottom with just two points. With crucial matches still to play, the team will be hoping improved off-field stability can translate into better performances as they battle to avoid relegation and secure their top-flight status.