Slum Boys survived the KPL blade

Posta Rangers' Jockins Atudo (left) and Mathare United FC players during KPL match at Camp Toyoyo on Nov 18, 2017. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Francis Kimanzi has expressed his relief at Mathare United’s Kenyan Premier League (KPL) survival, describing it as a season to remember.

Youthful Mathare, who were involved in the relegation dog-fight for the better part of the season, retained their topflight status on the final day of the campaign after holding Posta Rangers to a 2-2 draw at Camp Toyoyo.

Mathare secured their status as a KPL club for another year in a miraculous fashion as they went eight matches unbeaten garnering 14 points on the run.

Unlike the 2011 and 2012 seasons where the former champions finished three points above the drop zone, last weekend’s draw saw Mathare go level on points 39 with 14th placed Chemelil Sugar and 15th placed Nakumatt but edged them on goal difference.

In addition, their leading scorer Chrispin Oduor finished fifth in the league’s scoring standings with eleven goals.

Despite their impressive form including 1-0 victory over champions Gor Mahia in Thika, the former Harambee Stars coach believes the 1-0 win over Nzoia Sugar in their third last match was their season’s turning point.

“We are talking about finishing the league happily like a team that really worked hard. We didn’t go into Posta Rangers game with relegation threats; we were safe after the Nzoia game,” Kimanzi told The Standard Sports.

“I think it has been a good season. We have succeeded with what we wanted; we had our own goals that we achieved. It was a very clear mission and we have achieved it that is why we are a very happy team.”

Asked about next year’s plans, the experienced tactician who began his second Mathare revolution by putting his faith in young players, said; “Next season is still very far, I don’t want to discuss about it now. Instead let’s discuss the efforts that the boys have given this year and allow them enjoy their Christmas. It is actually a celebration and fun time for Mathare.”

But for Mathare United chairman Bob Munro, he knew his side has survived the axe when they completed a double over champions Gor Mahia on October 14.

“By any standards, it has been a very difficult season for us. But I knew we would survive after beating Gor Mahia in the return leg. It was definitely a turning point for us.

“We had already been written off and everyone was thinking that we were dead and relegated. But that worked on our advantage as the boys played with less pressure.”

Midfielder Edward Seda was equally excited for helping his side secure another year in the league. “Despite the challenges we had, as players we never gave up. It was a tough, but good learning experience. We are looking forward to a better season next year,” said Seda.