‘They Sat Back’ - Tusker Coach Aims Dig at Shabana, Claims Glamor Boys Were Lucky to Even Draw

Tusker head coach Charles Okere has fired back at his Shabana counterpart Peter Okidi, suggesting the Kisii-based side were fortunate to escape with a draw during their heated 1-1 FKF Premier League clash at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

The Brewers came from behind through Ian Simiyu’s second-half strike to cancel out Austin Odongo’s early opener, ensuring both teams shared the spoils in what was a tactical but tense encounter.

After the match, Okidi had lamented Brian Michira’s early injury as the turning point that derailed Shabana’s rhythm and cost them victory — claiming the absence of the influential midfielder disrupted their game plan.

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However, Okere had a contrasting view, arguing that Shabana simply “sat back” and were lucky to even get a point from a game Tusker largely dominated.

“I congratulate our players for their tenacity. It’s a new season, and we have young players who are going to do well this season. I’m very happy for them,” Okere said.

“Shabana sat back during the second half. They hardly had any attempts except in the last five minutes when we tired out. Super performance from our boys.”

The result means Tusker are still chasing their first win of the season, though Okere insists there is no panic in camp, stressing the need to remain patient and keep improving during the international break.

“We are going for our break now, and we have to sit back as a team to see where we can improve. We conceded again, which is an area of concern, but it’s something we must address. The promise is there,” he noted.

Okere, who has been integrating a host of new signings following the departure of key players such as Ryan Ogam, said the process of rebuilding a cohesive unit takes time but is confident Tusker will soon start firing on all cylinders.

“We brought in new players who are still gelling into the team. It’s just a matter of time,” he said. 

“Tusker is a big club — there’s always pressure. But the quality we’ve brought in is good, and I believe we’ll do well. This is a marathon, not a sprint. The league is not won in October. We will be fine.”

The draw leaves Shabana top of the table with seven points, level with Posta Rangers but ahead on goal difference, while Tusker sit in the relegation playoff spot with just two points from their opening three games.

With both coaches offering contrasting explanations, Okidi blaming an untimely injury and Okere accusing Shabana of defensive football , their next encounter promises to be another fiery chapter in this emerging rivalry.