Kenya: Matano Happy With Leopards’ League Progress

Nairobi Star (Nairobi)

Muigai Kiguru

17 March 2011

AFC Leopards technical director Robert Matano has attributed their latest success in this season’s Kenyan Premier League campaign to the calmness currently experienced at the club. Matano blamed the loss to Tusker in their opening match of the season to technical mistakes by coach Roberto Bollen, who has since broke ties with the outfit. “The coach developed a rift within the players by insisting on dropping some regular players in the build-up to the match,” said Matano. However, the team overcame the defeat to register wins in their subsequent games-a 3-1 win over Rangers at the City Stadium and a 1-0 defeat of defending champions Ulinzi in Nakuru last weekend. “I think the successful transition after the election has also brought confidence to the players and they are ready to work towards the title,” added Matano. Alex ole Magelo was elected as the new club chairman early this month after days of management wrangles at the club. “We are happy there is peace and players can now focus on the remaining matches,” said Matano. Leopards host Karuturi Sports this weekend and Matano remains optimistic that the team can go all the way. “This is our time,” he said. Meanwhile, the first leg match between Tusker FC and Gor Mahia on May 21 has been moved from the City Stadium to Bukhungu Stadium at the request of home team Tusker. Gor Mahia secretary general Nikanur Arum said Tusker has already communicated of their intention to move the match, a request that has been granted.

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