NSL: Silibwet Leons plots Mara Sugar fall

As the National Super League (NSL) games enter week 35 this weekend, the promotion race is nearly decided, leaving the spotlight on the intense battle for survival at the other end of the table.

Relegation-threatened Silibwet Leons, based in Bomet, remain hopeful of turning their season around and avoiding the drop, according to team manager Eric Rono.

After 34 rounds of play, the Leons sit at the bottom of the table with 22 points. They face relegation to Division One if they fail to secure victories in their remaining four matches.

Rono is urging the team's supporters to rally behind the Leons as they prepare to face league leaders Mara Sugar away in Awendo on Saturday.

“We have tough fixtures ahead, starting with the 'big boys of NSL,' Mara Sugar, on Saturday. We also have to play Naivas, Dimba Patriots, and Nairobi United. However, we are known for achieving good results against the big teams,” Rono affirmed.

“I am asking the fans to rally behind the team. All is not lost, and I promise them that Silibwet Leons will not be relegated, Inshallah.”

Rono cited financial constraints as a major factor in their poor performance this season.

“We are in a tough scenario with attending fixtures away. Players sometimes go without food on match days and are stranded away from home due to lack of transport. This has affected us this season. I want to call on well-wishers to come to the aid of the team as we enter the final stage and try to survive the chop,” Rono added.

The team manager also expressed frustration over the Football Kenya Federation's (FKF) decision to dock them points for failing to honour their clash against Mombasa Stars, terming the move unfair and calling for it to be reconsidered.

A win for Silibwet (22 points) would move them up but still within the relegation zone, with Gusii (25 points) and Kajiado FC (29 points) also fighting to stay clear of the drop.