This archive report was first published on 28 August 2019.
Kenya Premier League newcomers Kisumu All Stars are gearing up for their top-flight debut against Ulinzi Stars on Saturday, August 31, 2019, at Moi Stadium.
The team, which finished second in the 2018 National Super League with 80 points, has bolstered its squad with 13 new players ahead of the 2019-20 KPL season.
Team manager Alfred Adu expressed confidence in the new signings, stating that they bring balance and wealth to the team's attack and defense.
"We brought in a crop of young talented players and seven experienced players from the super league and premier league clubs that we have confidence in to improve the team ahead of our top-flight league debut," Adu told The Standard.
The team's new signings include forwards Wesley Kemboi, Steve Otieno, Walter Omondi, Michael Owino, and Mark Kwasira, as well as midfielders John Owira, Maxwel Onyango, and Martin Oduor, and defenders Jacob Ombija, Charles Warinda, Arthur Ochung, and Jeckonia Ogendo.
Former Western Stima tactician Henry Omino has been appointed as the team's head coach, with Andrew Aroka and former head coach Francis Oduor serving as his deputies.
On the eve of their debut, Omino expressed his team's target of starting the league on a high note, saying, "Our target is to start the league on a high note on Saturday and as hosts we are looking forward to starting life in the premier league with a win," he added.
However, he urged the team to be careful against Ulinzi Stars, who have the experience and talent to win games.
Ulinzi Stars will be led by Enosh Ochieng, a player who can hurt any team, Omino warned.
On the same day, defending champions Gor Mahia will entertain Tusker at Moi Stadium at 4:15 pm.
