Assistant coach Fred Abuga has urged Highway Secondary School's football team to remain vigilant as they prepare to defend their Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) national title. The team will face Tononoka on Sunday in Thika, marking the start of their campaign.
Abuga emphasized the challenge posed by new entrants to the tournament, noting that unfamiliar opponents require full focus and respect. "This year's competition features many new teams we have not faced before, which makes the matches unpredictable. We expect tough challenges but are committed to giving our best," he said.
Having lost the title last year to St. Joseph's Boys Kitale, Highway is confident their experience in the County League will provide an edge. "Unlike 2024 when we won our first title, we now have more match experience and endurance, which should help us against opponents who have not played at our level," Abuga added.
Highway secured their spot at the nationals after a dramatic win over Upper Hill in penalties (4-3) following a goalless draw in regular time during the regional final. The team has since intensified training and played several friendlies to ensure peak fitness.
Despite a recent injury to a goalkeeper, a replacement has been found, and the squad is reportedly in good shape. The coaching staff has also focused on improving their attacking efficiency, aiming to avoid extra-time battles like the regional final.
Pool A Lineup
- Highway Secondary School (Defending champions)
- St. Mary's Yala (Nyanza region)
- Tononoka (Coast region)
- Menengai High School (Rift Valley)
Highway leads Pool A and looks to leverage their experience to advance towards reclaiming the national championship.
