Shabana will be looking for a new head coach after just eight Kenyan Premier League matches after head coach Sammy Okoth resigned immediately after a 4-0 drubbing by Ulinzi Stars at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata on Sunday.
Okoth, who helped the club return to the top tier after 17 years in the cold by winning the National Super League (NSL), said he made the decision individually and feels there is nothing new he would offer the Gusii side.
“I have never lost by a 4-0 margin in my coaching career. This didn’t auger well with me and the result is the main reason I am leaving. Maybe someone else can come and do a better job,” said Okoth.
Okoth refused to confirm whether there was internal or external pressure that led to the decision, standing firm on his personal reasons.
Prior to his departure, Okoth had warned that he was tired of players repeating mistakes time and again, and he would leave if nothing changed.
Shabana dropped points in three-winning situations, conceding late goals, which saw fans bay the blood of goalkeeper Erick Ongir.
“I am proud of what I did at Shabana. My biggest highlight will be winning the NSL last season and leading the Glamour Boys back to the top-tier league but I have to walk away,” he said.
The tactician leaves Shabana at position 16 with just five points from eight games. He managed one win, four draws and three losses.
Okoth is a former striker who played for Shabana, Gor Mahia and Sher Agencies before hanging his boots in 2004. He also featured for the national team Harambee Stars after making his debut in 1997 against Tanzania. He also had a stint as Zoo Kericho coach
Sources within the club said Okoth’s assistant, Oscar Kambona, will be in charge on temporary basis as they seek a new gaffer. They next face Gor Mahia on Wednesday in the Premier League.
Okoth is not the first to leave the Premier League early on with Twahir Muhiddin (Bandari), Francis Baraza (Kenya Police) and Tom Juma (AFC Leopards) having left their sides after disappointing starts to the season.
