Oliech clocks 23 minutes, admits hard work awaits him

Gor Mahia Denis Oliech against Mathare United during their KPL match at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday 06/01/19. They draw 1-1[Boniface Okendo,Standard]

Former Kenyan captain Dennis Oliech made his return to the Kenyan Premier League with a 23 minute appearance against Mathare United yesterday.

News of his imminent return appeared to have inspired a lot of fans as yesterday’s match was highly attended.

The fans cheered every time Oliech ran to warm up preparing to come on and when he eventually did as a second half substitute in the place of Nicholas Kipkurui, the fans went wild.

His first touch of the ball was a headed pass to Francis Kahata which the midfielder got a long shot from.

Within five minutes of his coming on he had destabilised the Mathare United backline and suddenly they were cautious to go upfront as easily as they had done previously.

Oliech described his return as a difficult one knowing the high expectations fans had of him.

“It was my first game and like it happened with my debut with the national team Harambee Stars, it started with a few minutes.

“I am now looking forward to making a start next Wednesday in Kisumu. It will take a few matches to be at my best,” he said.

Oliech said he is determined to help Gor Mahia win the league title by scoring goals.