Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere has urged his players to stay focused and continue improving despite their significant 2-1 victory over defending champions Gor Mahia. This win was crucial in their bid to dethrone Gor Mahia from the top spot in the FKF Premier League, but Okere stressed that there are areas of concern that need attention as they push for the title.
One of the key areas that Okere highlighted is the team’s defensive play. While Tusker has shown significant attacking prowess, especially with the goals of Ryan Ogam, the coach believes that defense must be a collective responsibility if they are to succeed in the title race. Tusker has conceded 22 goals in 17 matches, which is a concerning statistic for a team aiming for the league crown. Okere emphasized that a team cannot win a championship if they are conceding goals at a high rate, urging his players to tighten up defensively.
The Brewers have recently found their rhythm after a slow start to the season. Their recent form includes eight wins from their last 10 matches, with losses to Shabana and KCB. This improvement has propelled them to the top of the table, where they now sit three points ahead of second-placed Kenya Police FC. However, Okere remains cautious, knowing that the race is far from over.
Tusker’s next match is a tough test against Ulinzi Stars on January 25 at the Ulinzi Complex. Okere is aware of the challenge posed by the Soldiers, who are known for being difficult to beat. He emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for the upcoming clash, stressing that each game must be treated with the utmost seriousness. “We have to take one game at a time. We kicked off the league on the wrong footing but we have slowly gained momentum,” Okere said.
Despite their attacking strengths, Tusker’s defense remains a concern. They have kept only four clean sheets in their 17 matches, which further highlights the need for improvement in this area. The team has scored 30 goals, but their leaky defense could be a potential stumbling block in their quest for the title.
Looking ahead, Tusker’s next three matches are crucial in determining their title credentials. After facing Ulinzi, they will take on Kenya Police, Gor Mahia, and Shabana. These fixtures will be a true test of their ability to challenge for the league title, and Okere knows that his team must be at their best both defensively and offensively to come out on top.
The pressure is mounting as the league enters its final stretch, and Tusker’s title hopes will depend on their ability to address the defensive issues that have plagued them throughout the season. With a three-point lead at the top, they are in a strong position, but the road ahead will require consistent performances and a tighter defense if they are to end the season as champions.
