Tusker FC interim coach Charles Okere is keen on capitalising on their solid start to the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season and has plans to fine-tune the squad during the upcoming three-week break.
In a tale of the apprentice outsmarting the master, Okere’s charges narrowly edged Robert Matano-led side Sofapaka 1-0 in their opening fixture at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.
Chrispin Erambo was the hero of the match as his lone goal secured all three points for the Brewers.
Okere served as Matano's assistant on the Ruaraka-based side before Matano left for Sofapaka after the end of his contract. Okere is now focusing on keeping the momentum going by implementing a structured training regime during the league’s pause.
“The three-week break if not planned properly can affect the rhythm of the team. We will strive to come up with a comprehensive programme for the break so that when the league resumes, we are in good shape,” Okere highlighted.
The FKF Premier League will take a three-week hiatus, with action set to resume on September 14, where Tusker will lock horns with Kariobangi Sharks at the Police Sacco Stadium.
Reflecting on their victory over Batoto Ba Mungu, Okere acknowledged the stiff competition they faced.
“It was a challenging match considering Sofapaka are a formidable team. We had to be cautious, but the lads executed the game plan well,” he remarked. “They applied immense pressure, but we managed to contain them and secure the win.”
The tactician credited the team’s success to the seamless integration of new signings and the squad's seasoned players. “The cohesion in the team played a big role. The understanding between the old guards and the new players as well as the team’s philosophy,” he noted.
He also praised the pre-season groundwork that laid the foundation for their positive start. “It has taken us six weeks of pre-season planning. It’s something we have been working on," Okere stated.
However, Okere acknowledged some nerves within the squad before their clash, which he plans to address during the break.
“There were few jitters here and that’s the main work we will work on before we return from the break,” he noted.
In other Saturday league action, Posta Rangers and Bandari played out a 1-1 draw at Kenyatta Stadium, while Bidco United also drew 1-1 with Shabana at Thika Stadium. A 10-man KCB side managed to hold Kariobangi Sharks to a goalless stalemate at the Police Sacco Stadium.
