AFC Leopards fans celebrating after a game won. [Photo: Michezo Africa]
AFC Leopards head coach Robert Matano is very optimistic his team will beat Gor Mahia when the two teams meet this Sunday, January 28, in the Super Cub clash at Afraha Stadium, Nakuru from 3 pm.
The Super Cup match is a traditional curtain-raiser played between Kenyan Premier League champions and winners of the domestic knockout Cup competition, now known as the GOtv-shield, a week before season kick-off.
"We're gearing for the game. Everything is running smoothly and I'm confident we'll beat Gor Mahia come this Sunday," Matano uttered.
He, however, said that his motive is to guide the team to finish in a better position; keeping in mind that his team, last season, finished in a not so impressive slot.
"Last season, we finished at position 8 which was not satisfactory. I am hoping for the best this season, and our aim is to secure a top-four slot which is achievable," Matano added.
On the other hand, Gor Mahia who beat KCCA 4-2 last weekend in a friendly match is training hard ahead of the weekend showdown.
Club assistant secretary general Ronald Ngala is also optimistic that the Dylan Kerr coached side will get one better of the big cats.
"We have played a couple of friendlies, the last one being against KCCA in which we beat them. I believe the head coach has marked some of the players including new signings who will be used in the Mashemeji Derby(weekend meeting). We won the Cup last season, and we were doing the same this season, so I am warning Ingwee to be ready for disappointment," Ngala charged.