Tusker FC Shami Kibwana elated after KPL heroics
Tusker FC’s fast-rising forward Shami Kibwana is elated after winning his first medal with the brewers.
This is after the Robert Matano-coached side was crowned Kenyan champion for the 13th time on Sunday after beating Posta Rangers 2-0 at the Ruaraka Grounds to retain the FKF Premier League title on goal difference.
Tusker went into the game in a must-win situation after Kakamega Homeboyz shot to the top of the standings with a walkover win over Kariobangi Sharks who did not show in Bukhungu for their final game of the season.
The defending champions held their nerve to see off Posta and clinch their third league title in seven years.
Kibwana who recently joined the Brewers from Kakamega Homeboyz could not hide his joy as he narrated his exploits during an interview with The Informer.
“I’m delighted and feeling tremendously blissful for the but I know it’s a collective effort from the team that has made us win the title,” Kibwana said.
Kibwana has been impressive for the brewers this season and was part of the first goal for the defending champions.
The talented forward believes it’s just the beginning of greater things ahead, as he eyes playing for the national team.
“The coach has been a great mentor to the team and also the way the boys handle all the pressure shows you the character of players we have around,” Kibwana said.
Shaphan Siwa put Tusker ahead from a rebound just under half an hour after kick-off with Kibwana orchestrating the goal after going past three defenders.
Jackson Macharia made sure of the result late in the 79th minute, tucking home the second goal for Tusker.
It was a bitter disappointment for Homeboyz who were hoping to win their first-ever league crown.
The Kakamega based team blew a 10-point lead with nine games to go as Tusker swooped.
Wazito FC, who won by walkover against Vihiga Bullets on the final day, will face a promotion/relegation fight to preserve their FKF Premier League status.
Unfortunately, bullets who had already been relegated from the KPL league did not show up for the fixture against Wazito.
Bullets will be joined by Mathare United who will also be going down for the first time in 23 years.
