Nairobi, KENYA: Champions Tusker will kick off their title defense with a tie against Posta Rangers FC on 15th February at Kinoru stadium according to the 2017 season provisional fixtures released by league governing body KPL on Monday.
The opening matches slated for Saturday 11 will see Bandari FC host newbie Kariobangi Sharks at Mbaraki Stadium, Millers Chemelil and Sugar will tussle out at Chemelil grounds.
Elsewhere, former champions and record winners Gor will travel to Mumias Complex to take on homeside Kakamega Homeboyz starting 1500hrs.
Three matches are on cards on Sunday where Mathare United will play Thika United before AFC Leopards tackle promoted side Nozia United, both matches will be staged at Kasarani Stadium, Nairobi.
Western Stima will welcome Muhoroni Youth in Kisumu in the day’s last match.
Kenya’s Confederation of Africa CAF representatives Ulinzi Stars just like champions Tusker, will wait until Wednesday before playing host Sofapaka at Machakos Stadium.
The inclusion of Sofapaka and Muhoroni Youth in the fixtures however, is likely to resuscitate the rivalry between KPL and the federation FKF, since the two clubs were relegated by FKF from the top tier for failing to meet club licensing requirements.
FKF had already promoted Vihiga United and KCB FC to fill the void of the two clubs in an expanded league of 18 teams, which as per the fixtures released by KPL only 16 teams are drafted.
