Sofapaka coach Francis Haringingo has said they are ready to claim the scalp of defending champions Gor Mahia in their Kenyan Premier League opening encounter on Saturday.

The Rwandese gaffer extolled his charges for speedily adapting to his coaching philosophy, saying their quick learning pace has made it easier for him to assemble a potent side.

“As a coach, I feel tremendously encouraged when players strive to follow instructions given to them by the technical bench," said Haringingo.

"I believe with that kind of progress we'll be in a position to get our act together for the new season."

"We already have a competitive squad that can effectively deliver maximum points in all our matches including the biggest Kenyan sides in the upcoming 2023-24 season," he added.

Harigingo expressed delight in the performance of his squad in their build-up match against Tusker that ended in a one-all draw at the Ruaraka grounds over the weekend.

"We displayed great character in our match against Tusker and, hopefully, we shall carry the valiance we witnessed into our opening game against Gor Mahia on Saturday," Haringingo said.

“Containing a team like Tusker cannot be taken lightly. The outcome attests to the fact that the new players have already blended well with the rest of the squad."

He urged his players to continue exhibiting the level of confidence seen in their match against the brewers, noting that they will need such tenacity to overcome their top-flight rivals.

"All my players were in brilliant form and I hope they will be able to replicate their performance in our game against Gor at Moi Stadium, Kasarani on Saturday," he added.

Haringingo's charges will peg on their comprehensive preseason training to pull off a vintage performance in the new season.

During the Elite pre-season games held at the Kasarani Annex, the side registered mixed results, crashing 2-0 to Posta Rangers FC in their first match before suffering another 2-1 loss at the hands of Kariobangi Sharks.

They wrapped up the four-team tournament with a two-all draw against National Super League side Kajiado United.

Haringingo was appointed as Sofapaka's head tactician a fortnight ago to replace David Ouma who was landed a new role as the technical director.