City Stars winger buzzing after earning first ever league start

Nairobi City Stars winger Gilbert Abala is yet to get over the excitement derived from his first Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) start after nailing a place in the first team against Kenya Police.

Abala, who made his top flight bow in round one against Muhoroni Youth, earned his first ever league start two weeks ago when City Stars lost 1-0 to Police in South C.

Prior to the game, Abala had to contend with cameos in their matches against Soafapaka, Nzoia Sugar, and Gor Mahia as coach Nicholas Muyoti gradually and cautiously introduced him to the big stage.

Having his name on the starting team was a consolation and a moment of pride, despite the team losing the game to the law enforcers.

“This is my first time in the top tier league and I am still navigating through it as I work towards settling in fully,” he said in an interview with club media.

Rising from an impact player to a starter is progress that excites Abala heading to round seven, where Simba wa Nairobi are scheduled to play returnees Shabana at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homabay.

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Shabana beat Tusker 1-0 in their last outing and will host City Stars, looking for their second win of the season and their first while playing in front of home fans.

“I had my debut against Muhoroni and went to miss some games. But I returned to the squad on match day four and went on to earn my first start against police."

I see that as progression and a positive step for me and I hope that I can build up on it to become a regular starter and a full-game player as we go along,” he added

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Abala joined Simba Wa Nairobi in the offseason from Busia-based club Teens of Hope.

He previously turned out for Busia Sugar FC in the lower leagues.