Charles Okere: Tusker firmly in the title race

Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere has insisted his side remain firmly in the Kenyan Premier League title race despite sitting seventh on the table with 27 points, nine adrift of joint leaders Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.

The Brewers last lifted the league title in the 2021/22 season, edging out AFC Leopards to become the second most successful club in Kenyan football history behind record holders Gor Mahia, who boast 21 titles.

As the league enters its second leg, Okere has urged his players to remain on high alert, stressing that there is no room for error if they are to mount a serious title challenge.

“The league is very tight. When you lose, you drop down the table, and when you win, at least you try to stay afloat,” said Okere.

“For us, it is about finding the right balance in the team so that we stay within the top five. Now that we are in the second leg, there is no margin for error.”

Tusker have struggled for consistency this season, rarely managing back-to-back victories. However, they bounced back from two consecutive defeats with a thrilling 2–1 win over KCB - a result Okere believes could be a turning point.

“The feeling is very positive because we had lost two matches in a row before playing KCB,” he explained.

“We sat down with the players and analysed how our opponents were going to play. I thank the players for the win - tactically, we got it right.”

With 16 matches remaining, the Brewers are aware that closing the gap on Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards will require near-perfection, particularly with goal difference likely to play a decisive role.

“We still have a lot of work to do, especially because goal difference will matter at the end of the season,” said Okere.

“We face Posta Rangers next, and as the transfer window closes, we are looking to bring in one or two players to strengthen the squad.”

If Tusker are to dislodge Ingwe and K’Ogalo from the summit, Okere’s men will need to maintain consistency and deliver almost flawless performances in the run-in.