Baraza rues key player absences in wake of defeat to City Stars

Bandari head coach John Baraza has conceded that his team is feeling the absence of three key players nursing long-term injuries.

Last month, Bandari lost the trio of Siraj Mohamed, Beja Nyamawi and Shariff Majabe, who all underwent surgeries within a span of a week.

Initially, Baraza expressed confidence that the players tasked with the responsibility of filling in for the injured stars would rise to the occasion and prove themselves.

However, the soft-spoken tactician termed the unavailability of the trio a massive blow, noting that their absence leaves him with limited options.

Baraza spoke shortly after their 1-0 loss to Nairobi City Stars last weekend at the Ruaraka Stadium.

The result saw Baraza register his second loss since taking over the reins at Bandari.

"It is not easy when you lose three players within a short period. They were regular starters and their unavailability is low for us. Our options are really limited," admitted Baraza.

Reacting to the slim loss to City Stars, who got the match winner through Robinson Asenwa, Baraza rued missed scoring chances and tough luck.

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"We put in a gallant fight, but City Stars defended well. They scored from half a chance. Unfortunately, we couldn't convert from the numerous we had," he regretted.

Despite the loss, Baraza is confident of recovering and catching up with defending champions Gor Mahia, who are five points ahead of them.

"The title race can be equated to the marathon. We have a long way to go. The gap is not huge. We go back to the drawing board and plot how we will gather three points in our next game," added the former Sofapaka coach.