LET SEARCH BEGIN:Betway talent finalists get down to the business of ardently chasing ticket to West Ham next year

From left: Moses Gitau, Steven Kamau, Antony Njoroge and Benson Githuku and other finalists of the Betway Talent Search warm up at Kasarani yesterday. [STAFFORD ONDEGO/WWW.SPORTPICHA.COM]

The final Betway Talent Search started yesterday with the players expressing confidence they will pick the sole ticket to visit West Ham next year.

The 16 players were received at the prestigious Ole Sereni Hotel at 10am for registration and check-in for a four-day experience of a life time.

Mathare United coach Francis Kimanzi, who is leading the camp, challenged the players to give it their best.

“You are here because you are the best from the thousands of players who turned up for the trials. This is the time for you to prove that,” he said.

Kimanzi further challenged the players to seek to learn as much as possible during the camp.

“Let it not just be about football but rather an opportunity to learn many other skills that will make you better in future.”

Former international Dennis Oliech told the players to grab the opportunity with both hands.

“This is a great opportunity you have to be seen not just by local coaches but also by international tacticians. Carry yourselves in a professional manner so that you leave here with something,” said the former Harambee Stars captain.

Kiambu-based goalkeeper, Marc Ndhiwa said he was determined to prove his prowess at the end of the exercise.

“I have been training three times a day, morning, afternoon and evening. I want to prove that I am the best as this is the first time I have got such an opportunity to be seen and possibly change my life for the better. I have an opportunity to prove I have what it takes to rise to the top.”

Defender Bradley Jairo Asila said he is ready for the camp and wants to learn as much as possible from the coaches.

Another left back James Koinange said: “I am psyched up and ready for the camp. I want to get exposure by working with high level coaches. It is a great opportunity for me.”

Antony Mburu, a centre back quipped: “I have prepared well and the ticket to West Ham is mine to pick.”