Tusker’s Charles Okere stays positive in title quest against Gor Mahia despite mixed FKFPL start

Tusker’s Charles Okere stays positive in title quest against Gor Mahia despite mixed FKFPL start

Mark Kinyanjui 05:47 - 30.10.2024

Okere saw plenty of positives from the side's 3-2 defeat to KCB which he believes could be integral in their quest to end their three-year wait for the FKFPL title.

Tusker interim coach Charles Okere is maintaining high hopes for their FKF Premier League title ambitions, even with an uneven start that has seen the Brewers win just two of their six matches.

 Since taking charge after Robert Matano’s contract expired, Okere has led the side to two wins, three draws, and one loss.

Their latest setback came in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to KCB in Murang’a, though it marked the return of striker Ryan Ogam, who scored twice to raise his season total to five goals.

 Despite the ups and downs, Okere remains optimistic about Tusker’s title chances, attributing their early challenges to resilience and mental sharpness under pressure.

“The moment that we are not resilient… you will concede,” Okere said, stressing the need for mental toughness. “It's all about resilience and decision making, especially in preventing goals. You have to be tough and resilient to handle these situations.”

The Brewers have had a demanding schedule, playing three games within a week, which Okere acknowledged has tested the team’s endurance. However, he praised his players for adapting to the demands. “I can say kudos to them because there have been many changes,” he noted.

While acknowledging the setbacks, Okere is encouraged by Ogam’s recent performances, adding, “I’m happy a boy like Ryan came back and scored two goals. Out of the negative, we have the positives.” 

Okere reiterated that their title chase remains strong with the season still wide open, stating, “Nobody has been declared a champion… we are going to fight until the last minute.”

Tusker’s campaign has been hot and cold, starting with a 1-0 win over Sofapaka, followed by a narrow 3-2 loss to Kariobangi Sharks.

 A 2-2 draw against Kakamega Homeboyz, a 1-1 result with Kenya Police, a strong 3-1 win over FC Talanta, and a 1-1 draw with Ulinzi Stars have kept them within striking distance but far from a dominant run.

For the past two seasons, Tusker has finished as Gor Mahia’s closest rival in the title race, ending the last campaign with 65 points, eight shy of K’Ogalo, who claimed their record 21st title.

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