Ulinzi Starlets coach Joseph Mwanza has tipped Kisumu All-Starlets striker Monica Etot to become a top player after running the show in the women's Premier League match on April 8 at Moi Stadium, Kisumu.
The soldiers narrowly won the match 2-1 courtesy of goals from Phina Odiro and Neddy Atieno as Etot scored for the hosts but Mwanza said the hawk-eyed striker kept his defence on their toes throughout.
"I must commend Etot for her efforts. Every time she had the ball, she was almost unplayable. My defence was always on toes whenever she had the ball on her feet and she converted one of the two chances presented to her," Mwanza said.
The strike against Ulinzi was Etot's 13th goal of the season. She remains firmly in the race for the golden boot award alongside Thika's Wendy Atieno who boasts 15 goals.
Etot was included in the Harambee Starlets provisional squad for the Albania friendly match that was canceled by the Football Kenya Federation early this month.
"She has what it takes to become the best player in the specialty. Her link-up play with the rest of the team was even better. She has the pace and power required to bully defences. Her movement and trickery within the box are some of her strengths," Mwanza added.
Mwanza, who previously guided the soldiers to the FKF Women's Cup and Super Cup glory, said Atieno, who scored the winning goal, remains an important member of the team.
"She came off the bench in the last 30 minutes and changed the outcome of the match. She is a class act. Any coach would love to have a player of her quality at their disposal."
Commenting on the result, Mwanza pointed out: "It was not easy. Kisumu is a good side despite their position on the standings. We have the the Cup match against Soccer Sisters on April 15 at Ruaraka so there's need to maintain momentum since we are in the business end of the season."
