Tusker head coach Robert Matano was over the moon after his charges walloped city rivals Sofapaka 3-1 at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos, to go third in the Kenyan Premier League standings.
Matano said he is convinced his squad is now ripe enough to charge for a 12th title after surrendering the silverware to multiple champions Gor Mahia last season.
“When our fans were making a lot of noise in the initial phase of the season, I asked them to be patient and give the team enough time to gel. The results of our hard work are now out there for everyone to see,” Matano remarked.
“I’m satisfied with what we have accomplished in the recent weeks and I believe we are now back to where we belong title contention.”
Matano expressed hope they will extend the good run in their real acid test against Gor Mahia this weekend.
“Gor are experiencing one of their best seasons but I believe we can tame them,” Matano stated.
As Matano lavished praise on his charges for a job well done, his opposite number, Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno, said they simply experienced a bad day in office.
“We obviously lost to a better team but I must also add that we failed to utilise the chances we created,” Otieno said.
“We hope to bounce back in our next match, against Kakamega Homeboyz, on Saturday.”
Fabian Adikiny struck on the hour mark to fire the Ruaraka-based Brewers ahead before Eric Kapaito doubled the advantage two minutes later.
Keegan Ndemi then latched onto a pass on the edge of the box to pull one back for Sofapaka before David Odoyo sealed Tusker’s win with a splendid effort in the 72nd minute.
Elsewhere, Kenya Police edged Bidco United 1-0 at Thika Stadium while AFC Leopards wrung out a hard-fought 1-0 over Muhoroni Youth at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu.
Muranga Seal’s woes deepened with another 1-0 loss to Talanta FC at St. Sebastian Park while Nairobi City Stars beat Posta Rangers 1-0 at Ruaraka grounds to go second in the standings.
Newly appointed Shabana head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo got off to a flying start, thumping Nzoia Sugar 5-2 at Sudi Stadium in Bungoma.
Ulinzi Stars and KCB shared spoils in a drab barren draw at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.
