Stima coach warns against complacency, targets NSL title

Western Stima head coach Richard Makumbi has warned his players against losing focus as they bid to get promoted to the Kenya Premier League.

Makumbi’s warning comes in the wake of a 2-1 win in their last outing when they were forced to rally from behind to defeat Kangemi All Stars.

The win propelled them to the second spot in the National Super League table on 43 points from 22 matches, two points adrift of leaders Ushuru, putting their dreams of a promotion alive.

The soft-spoken coach now wants his charges to maintain discipline and teamwork, citing the recent upturn in form of their promotion rivals Ushuru as a major reason to worry.

“Look at Ushuru FC, there was a time they even dropped to position five and we laughed them, but later on they re-energized and came back stronger.”

Makumbi also believes the new signings have strengthened his striking force citing Kemboi Nyarombo and John Mwita who have scored five goals each.

Of them, he said: “I expect a lot from them,” adding that his side is only focused on winning the championship.

In the last five matches, Stima has won two, drawn an equal number and lost one while finding the back of the net seven times, but shipping five goals in the process.

“We are in this tournament to compete and not to participate; we are looking for a win and also a promotion to the Kenya Premier League.”

Their next assignment is against Sofapaka whom they tackle in the Shield Cup this weekend.