Sofapaka find themselves on 2009 title winning streak

By GILBERT WANDERA

When Sofapaka won the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) in 2009 it was a historical moment for a club that had just earned promotion to the top league the same year.

The team finished their first leg matches on an impressive 32 points.

Three years down the line, Sofapaka have once again found themselves in a similar position as the league takes a one month break.

Will history repeat itself? Coach Salim Ali says he will be delighted to repeat the achievement of 2009 after a successful first leg.

“I am happy that we have finished the first leg on 32 points, the same we had when we won the league in 2009. I will be happy if we can win the league again,” he said.

Ali said the good performance in the first leg was due to discipline and character of the players which he hopes can be maintained going into the more competitive second leg. Despite this, Ali feels the midfield and defence are still not upto their peak and this will be his focus as he prepares for the second leg.

“The midfield has been building up slowly to our attack and it has not be been where it ought to be.  The defence has also not been working well, but this can be due to the fact that there were new players still to gell with the rest,” he said.

WINNING MENTALITY

Ali has also praised one of his latest signings Collins Okoth who was formerly at Gor Mahia despite claims of  indiscipline stalking the player.

“His quality and passion for the game is un-matched. He always gives you 101percent. His winning mentality will be key to our title push,”

“I have worked with him in the national team and even while at Mathare United and I don’t agree that he has disciplinary issues,” Ali revealed.

Even as Sofapaka sit comfortably at the summit, defending champions Tusker failed to finish on a high note after being held to a barren draw by struggling Oserian.

Tusker, however, remain second on 29 points which is still impressive as it keeps them in touch with the leaders.

Oserain will, however, celebrate even after failing to win at home, because the draw brought to an end their losing streak and they can go into the break on a positive note.

Chemelil Sugar appears to have lost their winning edge of late and once again failed to win at home after being held 1-1 by struggling Rangers.

Chemelil must go back to the drawing board and strategise afresh considering that they have not won in four matches now.