Police FC coach Etienne hails players, management after clinching league title

Police FC head coach Etienne Ndayiragije has hailed the impressive shift the players put in their title run-in to secure their maiden Football Kenya Federation Premier League on Sunday.

The 46-year-old was over the moon after successfully guiding the law enforcers to the gong following a 1-0 win to Shabana, attributing the success to the sheer hard work by the players and the support from the club management.

“The players have worked so hard to achieve this feat. I hail their dedication to fight for the title, they have been incredible,” Ndayiragije said.

While commenting on the management of the club, the Burundian coach appreciated the club’s bosses for easing their journey in ascending to the title.

“The management of the club led by Chairperson Mr. Nyale Muga has been so supportive. They are one of the reasons we’ve lifted the title this year.”

Muga deserves the praise as his decision to change the technical bench was the turning point of Police FC’s success.

The law enforcers had started the season poorly, registering only one win, five draws and two losses after eight games.

That prompted Nyale and his team to crack the whip, firing head coach Salim Babu and his entire technical bench in November 2024 and appointing Etennie who had previously coached Tanzania and Burundi national teams.

The Burundian then capitalized on Gor Maria's sloppiness and turned Police FC into title contenders.

He only lost four league matches since December, winning 17 and drawing five.

And with only two games to play, it was Brian Okoth’s towering header in the 79th minute which secured Police FC’s title after a three-year wait.

Ndayiragije couldn't hide his joy for the instant impact by his substitutes who turned the game around.

“The substitutes brought new energy and changed the momentum of the game. We had our plan and I’m glad it worked,” Ndayiragije added.

The champions will now be coronated on Sunday when they clash with Gor Mahia in their last fixture of the season.