Matano praises duo after stellar full debuts for Tusker

Chris Erambo (L) and Collins Odhiambo (R) Photo Credit || Tusker

FKFPL Matano praises duo after stellar full debuts for Tusker

Mark Kinyanjui 15:08 - 30.09.2023

After a shaky start to the season, Tusker returned to winning ways against Muhoroni Youth with two new signings impressing.

Tusker FC head coach Robert Matano has heaped praise on Collins Odhiambo and Chris Erambo after making their full debuts during the 1-0 win over Muhoroni Youth.

Erambo was signed after successful trials held by the club back in August, before being thrown straight into the starting lineup against Muhoroni.

The former Mombasa Elite midfielder had never kicked an FKFPL ball before but looked assured partnered next to David Odoyo who scored the winning goal to get the Brewers back to winning ways.

Odhiambo was signed from Kakamega Homeboyz to bolster the side’s depth at right-back following the departure of Kevin Monyi and the injury to Harambee Stars right-back Daniel Sakari.

Matano was in awe of Erambo’s debut, saying he “played so well” considering he came from the lower divisions and was thrust straight into the starting lineup at a level with “a lot of pressure”.

“85 percent. He (Erambo) played so well because it was the first game, and also he is coming from the lower divisions and is coming to a team that has a lot of pressure,” he said.

“They have to play to win, so the boy was well composed, and he showed the character and showed that he is able to (adapt well to this level).”

Meanwhile, Matano explained that he was familiar with Odhiambo’s game, having played against Homeboyz on numerous occasions. 

He described Odhiambo as “a good player” who would get even better once he gels in with his new teammates.

“I know him, that is why I brought him here. But with time, and after gelling with others, we will see more of him because he is a good player.”

“When he continues having more games (under his belt), we will see more (significant) changes for him. I am happy for him.”

Meanwhile, the three-time FKFPL winning coach insists his side must be on top at all times if they are to stand a chance of reclaiming the league title they lost to Gor Mahia by a solitary point last season.

“I do not know, but we want to be on top all the time, not just one time,” Matano said. “Our players are coming back, it is only a matter of time, as well as consistency,” he added.

Tusker will face FC Talanta in their fifth FKFPL game of the season on Sunday.