Tusker FC defensive midfielder Clyde Senaji has tipped the reigning Kenyan Premier League champions to prevail in the new season.
Senaji spoke after the brewers registered a comfortable 2-0 win over topflight rivals, Wazito in a pre-season friendly encounter at Muhoroni Stadium in Kisumu County on Friday.
Senaji — who joined from AFC Leopards last season — hailed his teammates saying they exhibited class against one of the most competitive teams in the top tier.
“We played well considering we beat a very good side, Wazito. We would like to appreciate our sponsors, they have done a fantastic job funding our trip to Kericho,” Senaji said.
“We shall be leaving this place stronger than we came and I believe we have a very strong team especially if you consider there are still some very good players who are out with injuries.”
“Generally, all the team members have high spirits and I believe we will perform well in the new season,” Senaji said.
Senaji's observations echoed earlier sentiments made by head coach Robert Matano, who exuded confidence ahead of the new Premier League season after roping in seven new signings.
Speaking while unveiling the players at the Ruaraka grounds a fortnight ago, Matano said he was crossing his fingers for a flying start to their title defence after bolstering his workforce.
“We have strengthened all the departments in the team. The players joining us have been meticulously picked to help us defend our title successfully,” Matano said.
He admitted they are under the pump to replicate their exploits from the two preceding seasons where they bagged back-to-back Kenyan Premier League titles.
“It's normal for people to expect a lot from us after we successfully defended our title last season,” Matano said.
“Our opponents are equally busy recruiting new players, so we expect a cutthroat competition in the new season.”
Fullback Boniface Onyango, centreback Thomas Teka and forward Eric Mata have joined from Kariobangi Sharks.
Others are custodian Brian Opondo acquired from Bidco United, forward Erick Otieno (Wazito) and 18-year-old David 'Daddy' Odoyo roped in from lower-tier side Green Commandos.
The brewers have also promoted bulky defensive midfielder Collins 'Ngolo' Otieno, 18, from the academy side.
Tusker have a chance to keep the KPL silverware currently in their possession for good if they manage to bag the title for a third consecutive time this season.
