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Tusker head coach confident of turning things around despite winless start
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Reading Time: 3min | Sat. 04.10.25. | 16:35
The Brewers have lost their first two matches against KCB FC and Posta Rangers before being held to a barren draw by Mathare United
Tusker FC head coach Charles Okere has backed his side to bounce back from a challenging start to the 2025/26 FKF Premier League season, insisting belief and patience will be key in their turnaround.
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The Brewers, who are chasing a 13th league title, have endured a frustrating opening run, losing their first two matches against KCB FC and Posta Rangers before being held to a barren draw by Mathare United on Wednesday, 1 October.
Optimism had been high that the clash against the Slum Boys would provide Tusker’s first victory of the campaign, but a lack of cutting edge in front of goal left the Ruaraka-based outfit with just a single point to show for their efforts.
There were, however, positives, as their defense looked sturdier, registering their first clean sheet of the season. The finishing, however, raised questions as numerous chances went begging.
The Brewers’ woes were compounded when star striker Erick Kapaito was forced off with an injury, paving the way for youngster David Polepole to step in.
Okere also made six changes to the side that lost to Posta Rangers, handing maiden appearances to Fabian Adikiny and Ronny Otieno, while Curtis Wekesa and Francis Oduor earned their first-ever league starts. Left-back Dennis Wanjala was recalled, with Alex Onchwari starting from the bench.
Despite the setbacks, Okere chose to focus on the positives, drawing inspiration from a marathon analogy to describe the long road ahead.
“Congratulations to the players for earning that one point. In a marathon, you always have to start somewhere. You can begin slowly and still finish strong. We still have belief, and this season is all about that belief,” Okere told Mozzart Sport after the match.
The Tusker tactician, now in his second season as permanent head coach, highlighted the progress shown by his side compared to their opening fixtures.
“Compared to our first two matches, we have shown improvement. We conceded in those games, but today we kept a clean sheet and earned a point. This is a league; nobody knows who will finish first.
Of course, on paper, it may look like poor performances because we have not met the expectations of many, but we keep working,” he offered.
Okere admitted his side’s profligacy in front of goal remains a concern, but challenged his players, beyond just the strikers, to take responsibility for converting chances.
“For you to be a top striker, you must take your chances. In real match situations, you don’t get many opportunities. Even from set pieces, like corners, we had chances. It’s not just about the striker; whoever gets the chance to score must take it,” he averred.
The coach further defended his team’s slow start, pointing out that many of his new signings are still adapting to Tusker’s playing style and culture.
“We have new players who are still adjusting to the team’s philosophy. With time, we will catch up, and once we build momentum, I believe God will give us victory by the end of the season,” he said.
Okere, however, downplayed external pressure, insisting that the team’s focus remains steady.
“Every team faces pressure, even those at the top of the log. If you play under pressure, nothing good comes out. My belief is simple: you can start slow, but finish strong. That’s the philosophy I hold on to,” he said.
Tusker will next face newly-promoted Shabana FC on Sunday, 5 October, at the Nyayo National Stadium as they search for their first win of the season.
