Consistency key for Talanta in fight to keep PL spot, says Gatheru

FC Talanta Assistant Coach Jackson Gatheru has called on his players to remain focused and consistent in their final five matches of the Kenyan Premier League (FKF-PL), in bid to avoid relegation.

Gatheru, who has been at the helm in the absence of head coach Jackline Juma for the last five fixtures, has managed two crucial wins and three defeats.

Despite the mixed results, Gatheru believes the recent victories have sparked a sense of belief and resilience within the squad.

“We can’t afford to be complacent,” Gatheru cautioned. “There’s still a real danger of slipping into the relegation zone if we don’t maintain our momentum. But the wins against Gor Mahia and KCB were a morale booster, and we’re using them as a springboard to finish the season strongly.”

Talanta defeated league leaders Gor Mahia 1-0 and followed it up with a similar result against Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), before suffering losses to Ulinzi Stars (4-0), Kariobangi Sharks (2-1), and Shabana (4-2).

“I’m proud of the boys. We played five tough matches back-to-back without rest, and they showed a lot of endurance. Winning two of those has given us the belief that we can do it,” Gatheru said.

Currently sitting 13th on the table with 32 points from 30 matches, Talanta are just three points clear of the relegation zone, with Mara Sugar and Posta Rangers both on 31 points, and Murang’a SEAL on 29. With the gap so tight, every remaining fixture is a potential decider.

“We are taking it one match at a time,” he emphasized. “The morale in camp is good, the spirit is high, and the players are determined to finish strong. As their leader, I can see the hunger to stay in the top tier.”

Gatheru also expressed gratitude to the Kenya Academy of Sports (KAS) for their continued support, crediting them for improving the team's welfare and boosting morale.

“We thank our technical bench and KAS for standing by the team, both on and off the pitch. Their support has given the players confidence and belief, and that’s why we’re turning things around,” he said.

The coach was full of praise for in-form striker Emmanuel Osoro, who has scored 13 goals this season, tying with Shabana’s Brian Michira. The duo trail joint top scorers Ryan Wesley Ogam (currently sidelined with injury) and Kakamega Homeboyz’s Moses Shummah.

“Osoro has carried the team with his goals,” Gatheru said. “When he joined us, we had a private agreement that if he emerged top scorer, there would be a reward. I'm slightly disappointed he missed three clear chances against KCB - he could have ended the game with four goals, which would’ve taken him to 16, ahead of the current leaders.”

Osoro, who had a failed trial with AFC Leopards during the transfer window, has impressed the technical bench with his discipline and commitment.

“He’s very disciplined both on and off the pitch, and that’s been key to his success. He listens, follows instructions, and delivers. His contribution has been invaluable,” Gatheru concluded.

In their final run of matches, Talanta will face Tusker (home), Kenya Police (away), AFC Leopards (home), and Murang’a SEAL (away) on the final day of the season—a stretch that could define their top-flight survival.