FKF Premier League: Silent strikers and absent sponsors mark the start of the 2023-2024 season

AFC Leopards Loren James and Alex Juma (left) of FC Talanta during match number 7 FKF Premier League Season 2023/2024 at the Nyayo National stadium. August 27, 2023. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The much-anticipated start of the 2023-2024 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League left fans and pundits disappointed.

The excitement among fans was palpable as they looked forward to the return of top-tier football action, but the opening matches brought disappointment as the strikers from all 18 clubs struggled to find the back of the net.

The lack of goal-scoring action cast a shadow over the league's kickoff, with only seven goals scored in total and a series of goalless draws across the eight matches played over the weekend.

A total of five matches ended in draws with four matches ending without a goal.

This unexpected outcome showcased the defensive prowess of the teams, but it also highlighted the challenges faced by the strikers in converting chances.

On Sunday, AFC Leopards were held to a 0-0 draw by 10-man FC Talanta, a similar score line also witnessed in the match pitting Muhoroni Youth (formerly Wazito) and Nairobi City Stars. Posta Rangers also drew 0-0 with Bidco United.

Defending champions Gor Mahia were also held to a 1-1 draw by Sofapaka on Saturday.

Among the clubs that managed to secure wins on the opening day were Tusker, Nzoia Sugar, and the newly promoted Muranga SEAL.

Tusker saw off Bandari 1-0, the same score line witnessed at Raila Odinga Stadium where SEAL stunned Shabana as Nzoia came from behind to hit Ulinzi Stars 2-1 at their Sudi Stadium fortress.

These teams provided moments of relief for their respective fan bases by clinching victories in an otherwise dull goal-scoring landscape.

However, the general inability of the strikers to find the target left fans and pundits alike perplexed and eager for more dynamic performances in the upcoming fixtures.

Sofapaka FC players celebrates scoring against Gor Mahia FC during their FKF Premier League match at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi on August 26, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

Adding to the concerns surrounding the league's start, it was disappointing to note that the FKF Premier League once again commenced without a broadcast partner and lacking sponsors.

Despite the hopes for positive changes in the development of Kenyan football, the absence of live coverage and financial backing raised questions about the league's growth and sustainability.

Many had anticipated that the new season would mark a turning point for the league, with the possibility of increased visibility and support.

“The league can always kick off without sponsorship, it can always follow. As it is, clubs should not depend on the league to find money but strive to seek their own sponsorship. If the league finds a sponsor that should then be complementary to the clubs

“To make it easier for all, we as clubs should together build value by playing good football that can attract fans which will be a plus to a would-be partner,” said Nairobi City Stars CEO Patrick Korir.

As the league moves forward, it is hoped that the teams will find their rhythm and the strikers will overcome their opening-day struggles, leading to more exciting matches with goals aplenty.

Additionally, there remains optimism that the league's administrators will secure partnerships and sponsorship deals to boost the league's profile and contribute to the advancement of football in Kenya.