Struggling Gusii FC bolster squad ahead of NSL second leg

Struggling National Super League side Gusii FC have beefed up the squad by signing nine players in the mid-season transfer window.

Team manager Hillary Jim confirmed the return of goalkeeper Bernard Onunga after an unsuccessful stint at struggling FKF Premier League side Nzoia Sugar. He was in goal in last weekend’s 2-1 win against Luanda Villa.

Also joining Gusii is another goalkeeper Jephiter Ochung’o from Kenya School of Government Ogopa, midfielders Kepher Ondati  (Mulembe FC), Bill Okite (Rainbow) and Elly Augustine (Malindi Progressive). 

Gusii have also raided Vihiga Bullets for defender Zablon Cheloti. Others joining Gusii FC are Kevingson Mose, Jeremiah Omari and Caroli Ogutu.

The club lost first-choice goalkeeper Avin Masongo to Mathare United, lanky striker Mathew Tegisi to Shabana, and defender Anthony Obonyo to Kajiado FC.

Former striker Dennis Onkangi will continue handling the team as head coach on an interim basis.

Assistant coach Calvince Ochieng said the departure of Tegisi is a huge blow to the team. He scored a brace in the league match against Nzoia Sugar.

“We lost three quality players but we have replaced them. We are hoping for a good run in the second leg. However, our biggest problem is finances which make training and honouring fixtures a challenge,” said Ochieng.

Gusii have already dished out a walkover against Kibera Black Stars and their game against Luanda was delayed by over 25 minutes due to lack of an ambulance.

“Despite the challenges, we are ready for a top-five finish. We want to make sure we win all our home matches,” he added.  The club sit 15th on the log with 18 points from 17 games so far.

At the same time, Naivas FC will seek to reclaim the top spot in the second-tier league when they face Vihiga Bullets on Thursday at Ruaraka playground in Nairobi.

Naivas surrendered the lead when they suffered a shock 2-1 loss against Kibera Black Stars on Sunday. Mathare United lead the log with 37 points, one better than Naivas.