CHAMP13NS: Tusker FC retain FKF-PL title

Tusker FC were crowned Kenyan champions for the 13th time on Sunday after beating Posta Rangers 2-0 at the Ruaraka Grounds to retain the FKF Premier League title on goal difference.

The champions’ afternoon had been laced in fear after challengers Kakamega Homeboyz shot top of the standings with a walkover win over Kariobangi Sharks who did not show in Bukhungu for their final game of the season.

That left Tusker in a must-win situation but the champions held their nerve to see off Posta and clinch their third league title in seven years.

It was bitter disappointment for Homeboyz who were hoping to win their first ever league crown and will finish with a sense of remorse after blowing a 10-point lead with nine games to go as Tusker swooped.

Homeboyz had set up the afternoon for a party with league organisers decking out a replica of the league trophy and players’ medals just by the pitch in Mumias in case Tusker slipped at home in Ruaraka.

But that mood changed quickly as Shaphan Siwa put Tusker ahead from a rebound just under half an hour after kick-off and from that point coach Robert Matano’s were never threatened.

Jackson Macharia made sure of the result late in the 79th minute, tucking home the second for Tusker who went a man down five minutes later when Kevin Monyi was sent off for a second bookable offence.

By then, the mood had turned from edgy at the start to celebratory as Tusker expertly guarded their advantage to see off the final few minutes and seal their title defence.

Wazito FC, who won by walkover against Vihiga Bullets on final day, will face a promotion/relegation fight to preserve their FKF Premier League status.

Bullets entered the closing round of the season having already been relegated and did not show at Wazito for their final assignment with Mathare also going down for the first time in 23 years.

SUMMARISED RESULTS

Bidco United 2-3 KCB

Kakamega Homeboyz 2-0 Kariobangi Sharks (walkover awarded)

Nzoia Sugar 3-1 AFC Leopards

Police FC 1-0 Bandari FC

Sofapaka 0-1 Ulinzi Stars

Tusker 2-0 Posta Rangers

Wazito 2-0 Vihiga Bullets (walkover awarded)