AFC Leopards interim coach Fred Ambani believes they are still in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League title race.
“We still have a realistic chance of winning the title. We want to keep winning our games. Winning the league as a player and coach will be an honour. It will be a big gift for me to win the title,” said Ambani.
AFC Leopards won their last league title in 1998. Leopards have won the league 12 times. Ingwe sit fourth on the log with 33 points from 20 points and have enjoyed an imperious form since Ambani took over from Thomas Trucha in November last year.
Kenya Police lead the log with 41 points. Ambani added that he is keen to remain as AFC Leopards head coach.
“I believe I have what it takes to be the head coach and I’m equal to the task. However, that is the decision of the management to make,” said the former striker.
Ambani spoke to reporters after Ingwe beat Mara Sugar 2-1 at Sony Green Stadium in Awendo, Migori County over the weekend.
South Sudanese towering defender Peter Maker and Kayci Odhiambo were on target for Leopards with Noah Jagongo notching the lone goal for the Cane Millers.
Commenting on the Mara Sugar match, Ambani said the heavy rains disrupted their game plan.
“It was a tough game. The rains made the field slippery and we would not attack from the wide area. Mara Sugar had a good game and I must admit their coach has done a good job. I thank God for the three crucial points,” added Ambani.
On his part, Mara Sugar’s interim coach Benedict Wanjala petitioned the FKF to address the issue of poor officiating in the league.
“We played well and dominated against Leopards. However, the officiating was pathetic. The federation should address this issue immediately,” noted Wanjala.
Despite the loss, Wanjala hailed his new signings Christopher Raila, Steve Otieno and Harun Thomas.
“Thomas made his debut and had a good game while Raila and Otieno played their second game. They will play a critical role in the upcoming games,” said Wanjala.
The FKF Premier League newcomers are currently in talks with striker Felix Seda and defender Clifford Otieno from National Super League side Nzoia Sugar to beef up the squad further.
They are also targeting another defender Lameck Omondi from NSL side, Darajani
Gogo.
