Shabana FC, one of Kenya’s most storied football clubs, is gearing up for a fresh start in the upcoming season under the leadership of head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, Coach Pamzo is optimistic that the club can turn its fortunes around and compete at a higher level. His confidence is rooted in a combination of strategic changes, including a well-executed pre-season, key signings, and the long-awaited return to their home ground, Gusii Stadium.
Pamzo took over as Shabana FC’s head coach halfway through the previous season when the team was struggling to stay afloat in the league. The Glamour Boys spent much of the season battling in the relegation zone, only securing their place in the league with a strong performance in the last five games. They finished 15th, just above the relegation playoff spot. This near-miss has fueled Pamzo’s determination to ensure that Shabana FC does not find itself in a similar position this time around.
A major factor contributing to Pamzo’s confidence is the comprehensive pre-season the team has undergone. Unlike last season, where time constraints hampered their preparations, Shabana FC has had over a month to prepare for the new campaign. Pamzo believes that this extended preparation time is crucial for the team’s success. “I believe a good pre-season is key, and this time around, we have had a better pre-season than we had last time,” Pamzo remarked. “We will have had over a month to prepare before the league kicks off, which gives us a significant advantage.”
In addition to the rigorous pre-season, Pamzo has also made strategic signings to strengthen the squad. These new additions are aimed at addressing the weaknesses that plagued the team during the last campaign. “I have made good signings, and I am satisfied that we will compete better,” he stated. The new players are expected to bring fresh energy and skills to the team, making Shabana FC a more formidable opponent in the league.
One of the most significant changes this season is the team’s return to Gusii Stadium, their traditional home ground, after extensive renovation work. Last season, Shabana FC was forced to play their home matches away from home, a situation that deprived them of the much-needed home support and the advantage that comes with it. Pamzo is excited about the return to Gusii Stadium, emphasizing how crucial home support will be in their campaign. “Last season, we played home matches away from home, which didn’t bring the best of us in terms of home support and home advantage. We will benefit massively from home advantage this season,” he added.
The return to their home ground is expected to reignite the passion of Shabana FC’s loyal fan base, who are known for their unwavering support. The atmosphere at Gusii Stadium is anticipated to provide a significant morale boost for the players, helping them perform at their best in front of their home crowd.
Moreover, Pamzo is confident that the team has grown in maturity and cohesion after the challenges they faced last season. The experience of battling relegation has taught the players valuable lessons, and the time they have spent together has helped them gel as a unit. “We have learned our lessons. We are more mature as a team than we were on our return to the top tier. We have gelled, and so it’s now time to perform,” Pamzo said.
As Shabana FC prepares to open their league campaign away to Bidco United on Sunday, August 25, at Thika Stadium, the expectations are high. The team’s supporters, who have endured the ups and downs of the previous season, are hopeful that Pamzo’s strategic changes will lead to a successful campaign. The combination of a well-prepared squad, key signings, and the return to Gusii Stadium sets the stage for a promising season.
Pamzo’s vision for Shabana FC goes beyond mere survival in the league. He is focused on building a team that can consistently compete at a high level and bring pride to the club’s rich history. The steps taken during the pre-season, coupled with the new signings and the return to their home ground, are all part of a broader strategy to restore Shabana FC’s status as a formidable force in Kenyan football.
In conclusion, Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo is confident that Shabana FC is on the brink of a turnaround. With the strategic changes implemented during the pre-season, the strengthening of the squad, and the return to Gusii Stadium, the stage is set for a successful campaign. The team’s supporters can look forward to a season where Shabana FC not only avoids the struggles of the past but also competes at a higher level, bringing pride and joy to their loyal fans. As the new season kicks off, all eyes will be on Shabana FC to see how Pamzo’s vision unfolds on the pitch.
ALSO READ:Mounir Nasraoui, Father of Barcelona Star Lamine Yamal, Stabbed in Catalonia: Three Arrested
