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By JAMES WAINDI
Tusker have finally decided that the cake is not worth the candle and sacked coach James Nandwa for failing to steer the team to the local title this season.
Nandwa, who took the mantle from Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee in mid 2008 was shown the door after a lengthy meeting held at the brewers’ offices in Ruaraka to review the team’s performance in the just concluded league, making him the seventh tactician in KPL to be shown the door this year.
According to sources in Ruaraka, Nandwa was sacked for not delivering the trophy in two attempts despite having depth in the team. The board is said to have decided that they would not renew his contract that expires on December 31. Team manager Paul Makumi was also shown the door during the meeting.
The former Karuturi tactician took charge of the team towards the end of 2008 after Mulee was sacked and finished the season seventh. The following season, Tusker finished fourth and moved one position better this season to finish third despite being tipped as favourites.
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GONE: James Nandwa [PHOTO: STAFFORD ONDEGO/STANDARD] |
Assistant coach Neville Pudo who has occupied the position for more than four years, starting from Mulee’s reign, has been appointed the new team manager, while former player George Maina who was in charge of Tuskers’ youth team has been appointed as the head coach, but in an acting capacity.
"I believe my contract was not renewed because I failed to win the league in two occasions. We finished fourth the previous season and settled for third position this year and every team always eyes the top position.
"I have no hard feelings because we have had a good working relationship with my employers and accept their decision. I am now waiting for an official letter before I decided on what to do next," said Nandwa.
Despite Nandwa’s sacking, the tactician is among six nominated coaches for the KPL Coach of the Year Award set for November 24. The 2007 champions, who also won the regional title in 2008 managed 14 wins, 15 draws and lost five matches to finish the just concluded KPL in third position on 53 points.
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