Kenya: Tusker FC Reclaim Leadership Mantle

Nairobi Star (Nairobi)

Francis Wadegu

19 July 2011

Tusker reclaimed the leadership mantle in the Kenya Premier League title race after another unpredictable weekend for the leading contenders. The brewers, with 33 points are one better than Rangers after they beat bottom of the table Nairobi City Stars 2-1, thanks to goals from Dennis Mukaisi and Nigerian Joseph Emeka first goal of the season.”The hard work starts now for us because everyone has their eyes fixed firmly on us and they will try to topple us. This means we have to double our efforts,” said coach Sammy Omollo.

Earlier at the City Stadium Rangers had given up an early lead to fall 3-1 at the hands of KC B. The defeat left David Ouma’s side with 32 points, paving the way for Tusker to take over the summit, which they duly did with the win over city Stars. Meanwhile, the bankers jumped back into third place, four points behind the leaders. Mathare United stopped Gor Mahia’s charge towards the top three as they held them to a barren draw. It was a tale of missed chances for both sides who finally settled for a point each.

Gor remained fifth with 27 points, same us defending champions Ulinzi Stars, who forfeited three points to Chemelil Sugar after failing to turn up for their clash on Saturday. The soldiers are currently taking part in the World Military Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and KPL have refused to recognise the games as a legitimate ornament to warrant postponement of a league match.

The fight for relegation is shaping up to be a three-horse affair. For coast based sides-Congo United and Bandari-it’s safe to say will be in the dogfight for the long haul after they suffered yet more defeats. Congo were beaten 1-0 by Western Stima on Sunday, a day after Bandari lost 3-2 to Sony Sugar. Both teams have 14 points, five away from safety and one better than bottom of the table City Stars.

AllAfrica – All the Time