Tusker FC extended their winning streak with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mara Sugar, a result head coach Charles Okere attributes to motivation drawn from their previous match.
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“Winning our last game against City Stars gave us the drive to win today against Mara Sugar,” Okere said. “We haven’t consistently won, but we thank God for the three points. Mara is a strong side and has had a good run at the start of the season. That, too, was a motivation for us. To be champions, you must beat teams intending to win the league.”
Tusker aimed to build on their momentum from their 1-0 victory over Nairobi City Stars, while Mara Sugar sought to end a two-game winless streak. The match began explosively, with Shaphan Oyugi scoring his first goal of the season just 11 seconds in after a series of quick exchanges and a well-timed assist from Ryan Ogam.
Mara Sugar responded swiftly, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error by Joseph Ochuka in the 7th minute. Meshack Karani slotted home the equalizer, levelling the game at 1-1.
Tusker nearly regained the lead in the 28th minute when Kevin Kibande delivered a precise cross into the box. Shaphan Oyugi beat Mara’s goalkeeper Felix Adoyo but was denied by the post. Ryan Ogam also rattled the woodwork as Tusker continued to pile on the pressure, but the first half ended with both teams locked at 1-1.
Tusker resumed their attacking dominance early in the second half, and it didn’t take long for Ryan Ogam to deliver. Picking up the ball from a distance, the former Green Commandos star outmuscled his marker and fired a low shot past the Mara Sugar goalkeeper in the 52nd minute. It marked Ogam’s 7th goal in as many matches this season, a testament to his exceptional form.
Mara Sugar pushed for an equalizer, but Tusker’s defence held firm, ensuring the visitors extended their winless run to three games. Tusker now shifts focus to their next match against Murang’a Seal in Murang’a on Sunday 1st December 2024
“Every team in the league is tough. Murang’a is a tactical side, but if our boys follow instructions to the letter, it’ll be easier to play against them,” Okere noted, expressing confidence in his squad’s preparation.
This win propels Tusker to 4th in the league standings, signalling their intent to challenge for the title this season. Meanwhile, Mara Sugar who still remain second on the log will look to regroup and rediscover their early-season form as they welcome Gor Mahia on Saturday at Awendo Stadium
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