L. MathekaNew recruit Rita Ojwang relishing Ulinzi Starlets debut
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 10.10.23. | 15:02
The military side hosts Wadadia at Ulinzi Complex in their next assignment with the target bagging their first win of the season.
Rita Ojwang was introduced as a second half substitute as Ulinzi Starlets fell to Women Premier League (WPL) champions Vihiga Queens in their 2023/24 season opener, making her debut for the military side.
Ojwang who was roped in by coach Joseph Wambua from Wadadia FC was deployed as a forward in the opener with the tactician full of praise for her performance despite the side’s 2-1 loss.
“Her performance was impressive, despite moving her from midfield. She may not have scored but she created several chances and I am confident she will be a key player for the team once she settles in,” Wambua offered.
The 19-year old was part of the team that beat Vihiga Queens 2-0 in the FKF Super Cup where Mozzart Sport caught up with her for a chat ahead of the season.
“Pre-season preparations have been good, a different level from what I had become accustomed to but I loved the challenge. We are ready for the new season and starting with silverware gives us a lot of motivation to fight for the league title,” Ojwang offered.
Having faced off with Ulinzi while she was with Wadadia, the teenager admits that they were always a tough opponent and coming in, she already had an idea of the kind of competition she will face as she looks to earn Wambua’s confidence to start.
“We have squad depth and everyone has to work hard for a starting berth. As I begin my journey with the side, my target is to become indispensable and I feel that my speed will get me there,” she added.
While explaining his decision to use her as a forward, Wambua says Mercy Airo and Fasila Adhiambo’s absence forced him to adjust. The latter was on national team duty with the U20 team, Rising Starlets while Airo has joined Recruits Training School (RTS) alongside Sherly Angachi, Sofi Adhiambo and Lanoline Aoko.
In their absence, Wambua will rely on Ojwang, former Nakuru City Queens and Trans Nzoia Falcons’ Linda Kihara who was close to signing for Tanzania’s Alliance before changing tune to join the military side and Immaculate Wangira who joins from Kakamega Starlets to strengthen Ulinzi’s back line.
