Tusker tactician Matano dismisses title race talk

Mathare United Cliff Nyakeya(R) and Moses Chikati of Kakamega Homeboyz battle for ball possession during their KPL match at Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani on Saturday 19/01/19. Mathare won 3-2[Boniface Okendo,Standard]

Tusker head coach Robert Matano believes it is somewhat early to talk about the 2018-2019 SportPesa Premier League title race.

The third-placed Brewers, who have registered mixed results since the beginning of the season securing five wins, two losses and two draws, narrowed the gap on leaders Mathare United to six points after last week’s 2-1 victory against Chemelil Sugar.

Tusker enjoy a seven-point gap against Western Stima in fourth position, ahead of tomorrow’s catch-up fixtures. The top six teams are separated by just nine points.

With over six teams still in contention for the title, the two-time Kenyan Premier League title winning coach has warned Mathare against premature title celebrations.

“It is still too early to start talking about the title. The league is far from over. But what we need to do is to continue working hard and try to bag as many points as possible. We need to be consistent and keep in touch with others,” said Matano.

“The season is a bit short, but we cannot say it’s favouring any team now. Yes, Mathare are leading but the league is far from over. Leading the league doesn’t mean you are the winner."

"The hero and league champions are known at the end of the season and not at the start. So, we will know the champion at the end of the season, not now.”

But despite their blistering start to the season that has seen Mathare go unbeaten in nine matches, head coach Francis Kimanzi has silently tried his best to evade the title-talk.

The 2008 champions have so far racked up 18 goals, the highest in the league currently. while conceding just seven times.

“It’s a long journey. We have just done eight rounds so there are many more to come. We will continue taking each game at a time, but the most important thing is to be more efficient every time we step on the pitch and ensure we give fans something to smile about,” Kimanzi told the club’s website ahead of their 3-1 victory over Vihiga United on Sunday.

But even after Gor Mahia missed a chance to elevate themselves into the top four following their shocking 1-0 defeat to KCB at the weekend, captain Harun Shakava has warned their rivals not to write them off.

Despite having blown hot and cold in this campaign, Shakava feels the ninth placed K'Ogalo have what it takes to turn things around.

“We are happy to have worthy competitors this season. The other teams are really giving us a run for our money, but let everyone know champions are never written off,” said Shakava.

And for Sofapaka coach John Baraza, who has revitalised the side since his  appointment was confirmed a fortnight ago, their mission is to reclaim the title they last won in 2009.

“I’m happy to have been confirmed as the head coach and it’s my duty now to ensure we challenge for the title. Winning the title still remains our main target. So, we will keep on fighting,” said Baraza.

Gor Mahia seek redemption in the league against Sony Sugar in Machakos tomorrow as Mathare aim to extend their lead at the top when they take on rivals and recently crowned SportPesa Super Camp champions Kariobangi Sharks in a crunch tie at Kasarani Stadium.