Rejuvenated Tusker still hopeful of Premier League title despite slow start

The 12-time champions are  third on the Premier League table with 31 points, nine behind Gor who have not lost a match this season.

Having seen the Brewers rise fast from their poor start towards the end of the year 2023 and in the early matches of 2024, the management knows a win over K'Ogalo would reduce the gap to six points, and dilute their rivals confidence which comes with avoiding losing.

They have been on a good run, securing six victories in eight matches, including a 5-0 drubbing of KCB on January 7, marked by star striker Erick Kapaito's memorable hat-trick. 

The impressive momentum continued over the past weekend, with veteran coach Robert Matano’s charges reaffirming their dominance over Sofapaka FC in the Kenya Premier League with a commanding 3-1 victory at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

Fabian Adikinyi, Eric Kapaito, and David Odoyo scored in the 59th, 60th, and 72nd minute respectively, securing the decisive win. Sofapaka's consolation goal came from Keagan Ndemi. 

This victory saw the Brewers surge from fifth to third position in the league standings with 31 points, 9 adrift of league leaders Gor Mahia. Nairobi City Stars are in second place as the topflight season passes its halfway mark, with each side having played 18 matches. 

Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) Managing Director, Mark Ocitti, has called on Tusker FC players to engage the gear when they play league leaders Gor Mahia this Saturday at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. 

He said: "We are delighted with the team’s recent performances. The eight-match unbeaten streak reflects the players' resilience and commitment to turn around the season.

"Despite a challenging start to the season, we are now in a better position, currently holding the third spot in the standings and with a lot to play for ahead, we believe the team has a genuine chance of clinching our 13th league title." 

"As the team’s sponsors, we are fully committed to supporting them in their quest to remain at the top of Kenyan football. We remain hopeful that this team will emerge victorious this season and in the future. We extend our best wishes for the upcoming crucial clash against Gor.

"We have full confidence in our team to deliver positive results. We call on all fans to show their support by turning up in large numbers in Machakos," Ocitti added. 

Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano expressed confidence in the squad, emphasising the positive impact of recent additions to the team.

"We are in a much better position now after a challenging start to the season. My players, including the new additions like Joseph Mwangi, James Kibande, Fabian Adikinyi, and John Byamukama have been crucial to our turnaround.

"The team's performances have improved, and they have played a significant role in our recent performances. While there is still work to be done, I have full faith in my squad and the positive atmosphere around. As we head into the second half of the season, my hopes are high," said Matano.