Tusker FC head coach Robert ‘Lion’ Matano is now urging his team to shift their full focus to the Premier League, aiming to close the gap on leaders Gor Mahia, who currently hold a seven-point advantage at the top of the table.
This decision comes after Tusker’s hopes of clinching the FKF Cup were dashed on Saturday in Kisumu, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz in the Round of 16.
Speaking to the media, Matano expressed disappointment, stating that their initial target was to lift the FKF Cup. However, with that opportunity now gone, they must redirect their attention to the League, their only chance at silverware this season.
“We were very poor defensively. I warned the boys to be cautious of Kakamega Homeboyz’s dangerous crosses, but unfortunately, they didn’t heed the advice, and we conceded from a cross,” lamented Matano.
Matano highlighted their slow start to the new season as a contributing factor to their current situation, emphasizing that dropping points early on hindered their title aspirations. With only four wins, four draws, and five losses in their first 13 matches, Tusker found themselves playing catch-up to teams like Bandari, Nairobi City Stars, Posta Rangers, and Gor Mahia, all of whom had strong starts to the season.
Despite enduring late pressure from Division Two Bumbani FC in the previous round, Tusker managed to secure a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Daniel Sakari and Eric Zakayo. However, they couldn’t replicate the same success against Kakamega Homeboyz in the subsequent round.
Nevertheless, Tusker has managed to narrow the points gap between them and leaders Gor Mahia from 10 to seven, following Gor Mahia’s recent loss to Bandari.
Looking ahead, Matano acknowledged that his team may currently lack the ‘title spirit’ but remained optimistic about their chances of lifting the FKF-PL title. As they gear up for their upcoming matches, Matano emphasized the importance of assessing their opponents and maintaining focus and determination.
In their next two Premier League fixtures, Tusker, currently in second place, will face Kariobangi Sharks away and Talanta at home. Meanwhile, third-placed Bandari will host Ulinzi Stars before traveling to face Bidco United, while leaders Gor Mahia will entertain Kakamega Homeboyz before visiting Nzoia Sugar. With 24 rounds completed, Tusker currently sits on 43 points, trailing Gor Mahia who leads with 50 points.
