Clash of titans as Rangers face Buccaneers

Their previous meetings have been electrifying, but the clash between Rangers Handball Club and Buccaneers on Saturday 23 October has more to it.

The two sides are fighting for the last remaining slot in the Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) men's league Super Cup and the winner of today's clash will have an edge over the loser. 

Currently, Rangers are ninth on the log at 13 points from 11 matches, having won six, drawn one and lost four. Buccaneers, on their side, are seventh at 16 points from eight wins and six losses and desperately need this win. 

"We have been training well, keeping in mind we are facing our direct rival in the race for the sixth spot in the standings. Rangers play a fast game, quick centre starts are very common,"

"We have tried to polish on our attack, ensuring efficiency in our finishing so that we avoid losing balls and getting punished by their fast breaks,"

Battle for final KHF Super Cup slot heats up

"From the last match we played, against Kenyatta University (KU) our defence was shaky but we have tried to make it more compact. We are really motivated for we are still on the right track towards getting a slot in the prestigious Super Cup," said Franicks Njoroge, Buccaneers' skipper ahead of the encounter. 

Rangers head coach Gerald Juma on his part knows the weight of the task ahead and was cautious in his comments about the match. 

"It is a tough spot we are in as some players might not make it to Nairobi in time for that crucial match but we are doing everything to have a full squad," said Juma. "We know what is at stake. The fixture is favourable as it is our first for the day and the players will be fresh We will fight to the end." 

Uphill task for Rangers in fight for Super Cup slot

Later in the day, Juma will guide his charges against fifth-placed Black Mamba in game two of a busy weekend for the Kimilili-based side. 

Meanwhile, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) take on Gunners while Kisii-based Boomarang play K.U in the final match on Saturday. 

In the women's league, Juma's Rangers have their work cut out against title-chasing Ulinzi Sharks, the clash opening action at Nyayo. 

The Juma-coached women will have a short-lived rest as they face JKUAT Women later in the day in the only two matches of the women's league scheduled for the day.