Kenya Police head coach Etienne Ndayiragije was over the moon after his charges surmounted a tough challenge to wring out a hard fought 1-0 away win over Murang’a Seal at St Sebastian Park on Sunday.
South Sudan forward Alfred Leku’s 62nd-minute strike gave the law enforcers their eighth win of the season, propelling them to second in the Kenyan Premier League log and reigniting their hopes for a maiden title.
“I am relieved we got another win. This is a huge boost to our confidence and clinching the title is now becoming a reality for us. That is what we are all looking forward to at the end of the season,” he said.
“Of course, we still have many matches to play and what’s important now is for us to stay calm as the season gets into a more competitive phase,” he added.
The Burundian said they will bolster all the departments in the current transfer window.
“We have our eyes focused on continental football. The next recruitment will be influenced by that factor. We need players who can steer us to new heights on the international stage... if we secure a ticket to represent the nation,” he said.
Tusker, who beat champions Gor Mahia are top of the standings with 33 points from 17 matches.
Police follow with 30 but having played a match less while KCB are third with 28 points.
KCB head coach Patrick Odhiambo remains optimistic of winning the title this season despite a 1-1 draw against Nairobi City Stars at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.
Kelvin Etemesi put City Stars ahead with a fifth-minute opener but Philemon Nyakwaka struck the equaliser in the 22nd minute.
“The performance showcased our tactical prowess and individual skills, demonstrating that we are a force to be reckoned with. It is in these crucial encounters that the true character of a team is revealed,” Odhiambo said.
The resilience by his charges, coupled with their consistent performance throughout the season, fuels his confidence in their title aspirations.
“Looking ahead, we must maintain focus and consistency. The remaining matches will be crucial in determining our final position on the league table,” Odhiambo said.
Odhiambo reckons that the draw against Nairobi City Stars, while a setback in the quest for points, has not diminished the team’s aspirations.
“Instead, it has reinforced our resolve to push forward, fuelled by the belief that we have what it takes to succeed,” he observed.
Shabana and Bandari played out
to another one-all draw at Mbaraki
Sports in Mombasa while Sofapaka
were 2-1 winners over Posta Rangers.
