Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere lavished his charges with praise after surmounting a tough challenge to beat Bidco United 2-1 at Dandora Stadium on Sunday.
With the victory, the Ruaraka-based Brewers moved up to third place on the log, rekindling their lofty aspirations for a 12th Kenyan Premier League title.
A side with a storied history and high expectations this season, Tusker found last week’s 4-1 thumping by AFC Leopards a bitter pill to swallow, but they successfully regrouped and found their footing once more.
For Okere, the task at hand was to mend the emotional fabric that had been frayed by the previous loss.
“We showcased an unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. Rather than succumbing to frustration from our previous loss, we rallied together and drew strength from our shared experiences,” Okere said.
Visibly thrilled by the outcome, Okere praised his players’ mental toughness, hailing them for bouncing back from last week’s heart-wrenching loss at the same venue.
“The way the players responded today showed great character and commitment. We faced a lot of challenges after last week’s defeat,” Okere said, his pride shining through his words.
Okere said the win ignited a spark of ambition that had propelled them to victory in the past.
“This triumph marked a turning point in our campaign,” he added. He commended his squad for successfully carrying out the game plan, adding that they demonstrated tactical discipline.
“The midfielders orchestrated the flow of the game, while the defenders stood resolute against Bidco’s advances,” Okere said.
“However, it was the forward line that ultimately made the difference. Our hunger for goals was palpable, a testament to their desire to turn the tide of our recent misfortunes,” he added.
The first half of the match unfolded with intensity, as both teams fought for dominance. The breakthrough came barely 10 minutes into the match when a beautifully orchestrated play culminated in Ryan Ogam’s stunning left-footed strike into the left bottom corner of the net.
Bidco United, refusing to capitulate, reduced the deficit shortly before the final through second-half substitute Simon Munala.
Bidco stand-in coach Simon Wagema said they experienced a bad day in office. “It’s a match we should have won but we failed to use our chances and let in some easy goals,” he said.
At Gusii Stadium, goals from Brian
Michira and Austine Odongo were
enough to steer Shabana to a crucial 2-0 victory over leaders KCB.
