AFC Leopards cage champions Tusker in Thika

AFC Leopards Peter Thiongo celebrate with Harrison Mwendwa (left) after scoring in a match against Vihiga FC during FkF Premier league at Thika Stadium [photo courtesy]

Isaac Kipyegon put up a Man of the Match performance as AFC Leopards defeated champions Tusker 1-0 during their opening 2021-2022 FKF Premier League match played at the Thika Sub County Stadium on Sunday.

Saad Musa’s first-half strike was enough to hand Ingwe the win, joining Gor Mahia, Bandari, Sofapaka and Kariobangi Sharks who won their opening fixtures on Saturday.

Tusker acting captain Boniface Muchiri missed from the spot as the brewers start their title defence on the wrong foot.

The match which attracted the eyes of new Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat saw Leopards settled early into the match rather than Tusker who headed into the match as favourites.

While Leopards has signed no players after losing senior players who played a crucial role in the club's fourth-place finish last season, Tusker have bolstered their squad immensely.

The brewers have roped in more than 12 players not only for the title defence but also for the continental assignment.

Tanzanian import Ibrahim Joshua, former Kakamega Homeboyz striker Shami Kibwana and Ugandan striker Deogratius Ojok had all debuted with goals for Tusker during the Caf Champions League preliminary round and FKF Super Cup.

Barred to sign any player for failing to pay former players and coaches who have sued them, Leopards bench was composed of youngsters from their youth team

Ingwe’s composure and defending saw them take the lead from close range in the 18th minute after Musa curled the ball into the back of the net after receiving a decent pass from Peter Thiongo.

Leading 1-0 from the break, Tusker were handed the opportunity to level the scores from 12 yards but Muchiri sent his spot kick wide.