Tusker’s Matano seeks to go four points clear in FKF PL Chase

• Tusker are leading the standings with 64 points
• They are one point against Gor Mahia
• Coach Robert Matano is seeking a 13^th title for Tusker

Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano knows it will be a massive fixture against Gor Mahia on Sunday, when the two sides clash in an FKF Premier League match at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Tusker are sitting pretty top of the log with 64 points, one ahead of second placed Gor, and a win will fly them six points clear.

Matano is looking forward to netting those crucial points, and has rallied his charges to put in a good performance and pick a win.

“It will be a tough game and we definitely expect it to be difficult. But we have trained well and the players are focused and determined. Gor Mahia are also looking to win the trophy and we also want to defend what is ours. It will not be easy for either of us,” noted Matano.

Tusker lost the first leg 2-1 at Kasarani, but Matano says they have put that defeat behind their backs and have taken their lessons.

Morale high in the team

Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano

The tactician says the team’s morale is high and everyone is looking forward to going for a win.

“We have trained very well and everyone is focused. We just have a few injuries but the rest of the squad is okay,” noted the coach.

While he acknowledges that the game against Gor Mahia is crucial, he says it will not be a final as they will still have three more matches to play.

For the Gor duel, the brewers will miss the services of defender Daniel Sakari who is away on compassionate leave after losing his father. Boniface Onyango and Ibrahim Joshua continue to be long-term absentees while defender Kalos Kirenge is the latest to join the treatment bay.

They are however boosted with the return of defender Charles Momanyi who missed last weekend’s victory over Ulinzi Stars in the FKF Cup semi-finals due to personal reasons.

Tusker won three of their last five matches

Tusker FC players celebrate one of their goals in the quarter final win over KCB

Tusker have won three of their last five league matches, beating KCB, Kakamega Homeboyz and Kariobangi Sharks all by a slim one goal margin.

They come into the tie fresh from their FKF Cup conquest over Ulinzi Stars last weekend, where they also won 1-0, and Matano hopes the momentum from this game can propel them to victory over K’Ogalo.

At the same time, captain Humphrey Mieno has rallied on his teammates to step up in the best of their abilities and ensure they get maximum points. Mieno has played for Gor Mahia and won one league title with them, while he has won three others with Tusker.

“It will be a very tough duel but anyone who wants it more will get it. We are prepared, we are ready and everyone is looking forward to do their best. We know it will not be easy but we are going in with fire in our bellies and ready to make the best of the situation,” noted the skipper.