Tusker head coach, Robert Matano, has thrown down the gauntlet to his remaining custodians to live up to the challenge and fill the void occasioned by Patrick Matasi's departure to rivals Kenya Police.
Matasi announced his departure from the Ruaraka-based brewers on Wednesday, after sporting their jersey for 21 successful months and featuring prominently in the starting lineup.
Matano informed the three remaining custodians that they now have a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills while Matasi is away.
"I'm happy for Matasi in his new club because he's my son. He was transported to Tusker by me. He developed so well, and is a player who works incredibly hard, is incredibly dedicated, and has a winning mentality. I hope he'll carry the same spirit with him wherever he goes," Matano said.
The seasoned head coach expressed faith in the goalkeepers, saying they are all capable of filling Matasi's enormous shoes.
"The time has come for the remaining goalkeepers to demonstrate why they should also be a part of the team because everyone has their chance and time. They are competent athletes, but I wish they had been given the opportunity sooner," Matano said.
"They have demonstrated their abilities in the past while playing for other clubs from which we acquired them. We'll give each of them a chance since it's a matter of chance. I have faith in each of them."
Matasi's departure has left three of his understudies, Michael Wanjala, Brian Bwire, and Brian Opondo, jostling for a spot in the starting lineup.
The most preferable on the list could be Wanjala who bagged the club’s Player of the Month for June 2021.
This followed his outstanding performances in the four, Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL) matches that the brewers played in the month, which helped the team seal the ticket to the 2021/22 Caf Champions League slot.
He will be competing for the position with former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Brian Bwire, who has warmed the bench for the better part of his existence at the club since joining from Kariobangi Sharks two years ago.
Also eyeing the position is Brian Opondo, the towering youngster acquired from Bidco United in the preceding transfer window.
All of them spent Wednesday morning polishing their act under the watchful eyes of former Harambee Stars, Mathare United, and Tusker custodian Duncan Ochieng, the club's goalkeeper trainer.
