Charged Vihiga United Set Sights On Top Eight SPL Finish

3rd December 2018

Western-based side determined to improve on their 12th position last term when they earned promotion to the top flight ahead of their tricky start against Ulinzi

Vihiga United players celebrate during a recent match. PHOTO/Goal
Vihiga United players celebrate during a recent match. PHOTO/Goal
SUMMARY
  • The Mike Muiruri-coached side accumulated 41 points, three shy of the top 10 and have made their intentions to not only remain in the top flight but also crash into the top eight
  • Muiruri hailed his forward, Amos Kigadi who brought Vihiga town to a standstill when he became the first player from the team to be presented with the SportPesa/Sports Journalists Association of KenyaPlayer of the Month Award
  • Vihiga begin their 2018/19 season against four-time league winners Ulinzi Stars FC on Sunday at 3pm local time (+3GMT)

VIHIGA, Kenya- Vihiga United FC have set a top eight finish target for the 2018/19 SportPesa Premier League (SPL) season that kicks off on Saturday (December 8) with five matches lined up.

Vihiga made their debut last term and saved their top flight status with an impressive run towards the end of the campaign that saw them steer clear of the drop zone to finish 12th.

The Mike Muiruri-coached side accumulated 41 points, three shy of the top 10 and have made their intentions to not only remain in the top flight but also crash into the top eight.

The former Kenyan international joined Vihiga as an assistant manager before replacing Edward Manoah as coach, the latter being elevated to the less prestigious Technical Director’s position.

Muiruri took over when Vihiga were a point above the relegation zone and his impact was felt almost immediately as he led them to a respectable finish as he seeks to replicate his success with another Western SPL outfit, Kakamega Homeboyz FC whom he led to their record fifth finish in 2017.

“This team is very capable and is ready to challenge every opponent as we strive for a better finish in the new season.

“I'm happy to have been accepted by the community and I appreciate the support from everyone involved with the club, this is important as we aim for a top eight finish,” the former Chemelil Sugar FC boss told

Muiruri hailed his forward, Amos Kigadi who brought Vihiga town to a standstill when he became the first player from the team to be presented with the SportPesa/Sports Journalists Association of Kenya Player of the Month Award.

Better position

Kigadi was instrumental to Vihiga’s escape from the chop netting in their victories over Posta Rangers FC (1-0), champions Gor Mahia FC (2-0) and Nakumatt FC (2-0) besides laying three assists for the County Government of Vihiga-sponsored team.

"Kigadi is a top player and I believe he will be just as important to us in the upcoming season. They're a great breed of players and I believe we can handle any opponents. We are focused on our opening fixture now and we will go from there,” Muiruri stated.

Vihiga begin their 2018/19 season against four-time league winners Ulinzi Stars FC on Sunday at 3pm local time (+3GMT).

“Pre-season has been going great and we are hyped for the new season. This player award means a lot to me and the entire team because we are showing the country that we can do what they can, if not better.

“We’re all prepared and no doubt we will finish in a better position than we did last season,” Kigadi added.