Tusker bottle Homeboyz to throw FKF Premier League title race wide open

FILE Tusker FC’s Goalkeeper Patrick Matasi (centre) instructing colleagues during Kenya Premier league match against AFC Leopards at The Moi International Sports centre, Kasarani. April 24, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Defending champions Tusker increased their chances of winning the 2021-2022 FKF Premier League title after seeing off leaders Kakamega Homeboyz 2-0 in a top of the table clash staged at Ruaraka Grounds on Sunday.

Tanzanian import Ibrahim Joshua and Ugandan international Deogratious Ojok each scored in both halves as second placed Tusker narrowed the gap between them and leaders Homeboyz to a point with five matches left until the end of the campaign.

Robert Matano’s charges registered their 16th win of the season, the highest in the 18-team league. They are now one point behind Homeboyz who lead the log with 56 points.

Joshua gave Tusker a narrow first half lead after launching himself to guide Brian Eshihanda's clearance into the back of the net to give the brewers a 1-0 half time lead.

In the final half, Matano’s charges led by Humphrey Mieno stood tall to hold off Homeboyz numerous attacks before sealing the win with a late strike from second half substitute Ojok at the stroke of full time.

Homeboyz hopes of clinching their maiden Premier League title hangs in the balance after the defeat and now have to win all their remaining matches against record champions Gor Mahia, KCB, AFC Leopards, Kariobangi Sharks and FC Talanta.

For Tusker, they too have to maintain winning their matches which are slightly easier compared to their competitors Homeboyz