Kenya Police FC bid departing Machapo goodbye

FKF Premier League side Kenya Police FC have bid departing striker Elvis Rupia goodbye as he prepares to grace the Tanzanian Premier League after sealing a move to Singida Fountain Gate FC.

The two clubs arrived at an agreement a week ago that saw last season’s FKF Premier League seal a switch to the Tanzanian Premier League's big spenders for the next two years. At Singida, he links up with his former teammate Duke Abuya and Harambee Stars defender Joash Onyango. Abuya was acquired from the police a few weeks ago, while Onyango was acquired from Simba SC.

The law enforcers have now taken to social media to announce his exit in a short video and wish him well at his new work station.

"Thank you, Elvis Rupia Machapo, for the moments we shared. We, the Kenya Police FC, wish you all the best in your future endeavors," read the statement from the club.

Rupia has previously turned out for Muhoroni Youth FC, Nakuru All-Stars, Nzoia Sugar FC, Power Dynamos FC (Zambia), Wazito FC, AFC Leopards, and FC Bisha before landing at Police FC's yard.

His departure is certainly a big blow to the Francis Baraza-led team. Last season, he scored 27 league goals, and they are now faced with the challenge of finding a consistent striker within the team or outside before the transfer window closes in nine days’ time.

The club has already recruited South Sudanese striker Tito Okello from Iran, and the former Gor Mahia man is faced with the challenge of filling the big shoes vacated by Rupia. Clinton Kinanga and David Simiyu are the other strikers within the club who will now have to step up and shoulder the goal-scoring burden.

The police have started the season rather slowly. They had to settle for a point against the Kariobangi Sharks on the opening day in a barren draw. They then suffered a massive defeat against Posta Rangers on week two, going down 3-0. Next is an away match against newly promoted Shabana FC in Homabay.

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