Omija eager to cement his position at Sharks after league debut

After making his first Kariobangi Sharks league start, national U20 centre back Alphonce Omija has revealed his scheme of sticking in the starting team and his ultimate goal of turning professional after two seasons.

Omija who joined Sharks at the start of the season from Gor Mahia earned his first league start in the yellow robes during the 2-1 loss to Nairobi City Stars on Saturday at the Utalii grounds.

Despite coach William Muluya having experienced defenders available for selection, he elected to pair the budding defender with Tom Teka at the heart of the defence.

The youngster who punched above his weight in the match said he had unearthed the secret of winning the confidence of the technical bench which he intends to build on and market himself.

Prior to the City Stars game, Omija had made four second half appearances in the previous rounds.

“After months of hard work, I am glad I finally made my first league start while in Sharks colours. I want to be consistent going forward and enrich my chances of playing abroad probably after two seasons. It has been my long term dream and hopefully my dream will come true,” he said.

Asked on how he managed to contain Nicholas Kipkirui who is still searching for his first City Stars league goal throughout the match, Omija said the instructions from Muluya and Teka’s experience and cover came in handy.

“Before kickoff, the coach told me to be confident enough and replicate what I do in training. Playing with Teka who has been here for some time also helped me settle into the match. He covered me and helped me in positioning and reading the game,” he added.