Africa-Press – Kenya. Tusker FC striker Eric Kapaito has tipped the brewers to end a troubling run of form and register their first SportPesa League match in close to a month when they face Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium on Saturday.
The Ruaraka-based side, one of the traditional heavyweights in Kenyan football, have struggled for consistency this season. Currently ninth on the log with 28 points, Tusker are desperate for a win that could revive their title ambitions and restore morale within the camp.
“Our last few matches have not gone the way we wanted, but we are a strong team,” Kapaito said in an interview.
“Every setback is a chance to learn and improve. We are determined to put in a performance that will get us back on track. Shabana will be tough, but we believe in our quality and in the plan that the coach has set for us.”
Kapaito’s comments come as the brewers embark on a new era under French head coach Julien Mette and assistant coach Antony ‘Modo’ Kimani. The duo have emphasised tactical discipline and mental toughness in training sessions, aiming to shake off the malaise that has blighted Tusker in recent weeks.
“Julien has brought a new energy to the team,” Kapaito added. “We are working harder in training and focusing on our structure. Every player knows their role, and that clarity gives us confidence going into games. Saturday is an opportunity to show that we are still contenders in this league.”
Tusker’s recent struggles have included dropped points against lower-ranked sides, missed scoring opportunities, and defensive lapses that have frustrated both fans and management.
But Kapaito insists that the team spirit remains intact and that the squad is ready to fight for the club’s first league win in Gusii in several years.
“Sometimes football is about patience and staying united,” he noted. “We are not panicking. We know what we are capable of, and this weekend is about proving it on the pitch.”
However, the brewers will face a Shabana side determined not to relinquish ground in the title race. The Kisii-based team are third on the league table with 34 points and have been solid at home throughout the season. Shabana captain George ‘Dizzo’ Onyango has warned Tusker to expect a physical and tactical battle.
“We know Tusker are a big club with quality players, but we are ready for them,” Onyango told the press on Friday. “Our focus is on winning at home. Every match matters if we want to keep challenging for the title. Tusker should not expect an easy game because we are defending our pride and our position on the table.”
Shabana have been praised for their organised defence and sharp counter-attacks. Onyango, who has led the team admirably this season, believes that discipline and mental focus will be crucial against Tusker’s attacking threats.
“Our strength lies in unity and preparation,” Onyango said. “If we maintain our shape and stay sharp, we can get the result we want. Tusker have players like Kapaito who can change a game in an instant, so we must respect them, but we are confident in our approach.”
The Saturday fixture is also significant for both coaches. Mette is yet to taste victory in the league with his new charges and a win against Shabana would mark an important milestone in his tenure, setting the tone for the rest of the campaign.
“Every coach wants to see their ideas succeed on match day,” Kapaito said. “Julien has a clear vision, and we are buying into it. Winning on Saturday would give us momentum, and that’s what we need after the past results.”
Meanwhile, Shabana supporters are gearing up to make Gusii Stadium an intimidating venue for visitors. The team’s consistency at home has been a hallmark of their campaign, and Onyango insists that the squad will be motivated by both ambition and local pride.
“This is our house,” Onyango said. “We want to protect it. Every player knows what’s at stake, and we will fight for every ball. Tusker will have to earn any points they take from here.”
