IN a bid to turn their season around and escape the relegation zone, Kagera Sugar are gearing up for a crucial Premier League clash against defending champions Young Africans tomorrow.

The Bukoba-based side has intensified its preparations with a series of friendly matches, including a 2-2 draw against Pamba Jiji at CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza. 

These games have provided valuable insights for the team as they look to showcase their progress in the second round of the league.

Currently, Kagera Sugar sit second from the bottom in the league standings with just 15 points from 15 matches, having secured only two wins, five draws, and suffered eight defeats. 

Their struggles in the first half of the season are evident in their -9-goal difference, with 10 goals scored and 19 conceded.

To address their weaknesses, Kagera Sugar reinforced their squad during the mini transfer window by signing several key players. 

Among the new arrivals is the 2021/22 Premier League top scorer, George Mpole, from Pamba Jiji. Others include Omary Buzungu from Mtibwa Sugar, Moubarack Amza from Namungo FC, and Kenyan forward Saphan Siwa from Tusker FC.

Kagera Sugar's chief executive officer, Thabity Kandoro, expressed confidence in the team's preparations, highlighting the integration of new signings into the squad.

“All the players we signed have joined the camp and are working closely with the technical team. We are pleased with our acquisitions and believe they will boost our competitiveness this season,” Kandoro stated.

Kagera Sugar enter this match with the memory of their 2-0 defeat to Young Africans in the first round, played on August 29 last year at Kaitaba Stadium. Goals from Maxi Nzengeli (25') and Clement Mzize (89') sealed victory for the reigning champions.

Despite Young Africans' strength, Kagera Sugar view this fixture as an opportunity to test their progress and regain confidence.

“We know this will be a tough match, but it is also a chance to prove ourselves,” said a Kagera Sugar representative. “Our friendlies have shown us where we need to improve, and we are determined to seize the moment.”

Kagera Sugar’s poor start to the season was further compounded by coaching instability. Former coach Paul Nkata was sacked late after managing just one win in seven matches, attributing the team's struggles to a lack of quality within the squad.

While results under new coach Melis Medo (pictured) have shown some improvement, the team still has a long way to go. 

The second half of the season will be crucial in determining whether Kagera Sugar can secure their Premier League survival.