The coach of Kisumu All-Starlets Juma Said has set his sights on recruiting five new players to bolster his squad ahead of the upcoming 2023/24 Kenya Women’s Premier League season.
Said’s top priority is to secure the services of a goalkeeper who can provide healthy competition for Grace Tambo. Tambo was responsible for two of the four goals conceded by Kisumu in their 4-2 defeat against Kibera Soccer during the Football Kenya Federation Women’s Cup third-place playoff at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.
“Essentially, we need a goalkeeper. Goalkeeping has been our major challenge this season as we have relied heavily on Tambo. She has held the position alone and we require competition,” Said emphasized.
The coach also emphasized the importance of resolving the team’s financial issues to allow the players to focus on match preparations without distractions.
“Logistical challenges have been an additional obstacle. Thanks to the intervention of the federation, we were able to participate in the cup playoff match. Otherwise, we might have opted out,” Said acknowledged.
Regarding the loss against Kibera, Said commented, “We were missing our regular midfielders, and it affected the team’s cohesion. On a positive note, I am pleased to see Catherine Nabiswa back on the field. She had been sidelined for a considerable period, and her return will undoubtedly strengthen our defence.”
Reflecting on the season, Said stated, “The 2022/23 season was one of the most challenging in my coaching career. Each time I spoke with the media, it was primarily about defeat. Inconsistent training had its repercussions, but we are determined to commence early preparations for the upcoming season.”
Kisumu All-Starlets are looking to rebuild and regroup as they aim for a stronger performance in the upcoming Kenya Women’s Premier League season. With targeted signings and improved training consistency, the team is determined to overcome their challenges and strive for success.
