NSL: Ponda sets lofty targets after opening league goal's account

Naivas FC new striker Robert Karisa Ponda is aiming to hit at least fifteen goals and a double digit of assists this season after netting his first club hat trick on Saturday.

Karisa bagged three goals as Naivas registered an emphatic 6-0 win over Silibwet Leons at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.

It was the first time the striker, who was acquired from Football Kenya Federation Division One outfit Ruiru Hot Stars, was scoring for the shoppers since his move.

Ponda linked up with the team after a couple months of trials and won the trust of Collins Omondi, who has been fielding him in the starting line up in the opening two games that he has so far repaid by creating three goals and netting thrice.

The winger, who can also play as a target man, intends to build on the experienced expert's trust and drive to reach his individual targets.

"It was a great feeling to score the first goal for Naivas and to make it better, get the match ball,” he said. “The atmosphere from the dressing room after I scored got me thinking of banging in more goals.”

Ponda, who last season scored 15 goals for Ruiru Hot Stars despite having his individual targets, his key objectives remains to guide Naivas to FKF Premier League.

Naivas have been the favorites since their promotion to the second tier three seasons ago, but a lapse in concentration towards the conclusion of the league has left many viewing them as a mid-table team.

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However, Karisa believes the team has enough arsenals this term to fight for top-flight football.

"I am confident we will have a memorable season, the team did well to bring in quality signings that together we can challenge for promotion."

Naivas have had a great start to the season and are currently top of the log with two wins and one draw from three matches.