Tusker’s new hope: Polepole aims to fire Brewers to glory

Ogam’s absence for seven league matches has left Tusker struggling in front of goal, managing just two wins and five draws, a setback to their title ambitions.

In response, Okere has turned to Polepole, a Congolese-born forward who impressed with the Tusker Youth team in Division Two.

Polepole made his senior debut on February 26, replacing Ogam after he sustained a knee injury during a 1-1 draw against Shabana. He later earned his first start in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Cup round of 32 against Nairobi United, where he scored. However, Tusker was eliminated after a 4-2 loss on penalties following another 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Polepole expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and vowed to repay the coach’s trust.

"I have to thank the coach for giving me this chance. It’s a dream come true, and I couldn’t turn it down because I knew it would provide a great platform to showcase my talent. Now, I have to prove to the coach that he made the right decision in promoting me," he said.

The former Tusker Youth captain is confident he can step up in Ogam’s absence and help propel the team to the title.

"I just want to keep scoring the way I did with the youth team. I’ve settled in quickly since both the senior and youth teams play the same style. I worked with Coach Okere at the academy before he moved to the senior team last season, so he knows I’m reliable. I hope we can continue this momentum," he added.

Polepole also reflected on his first league goal against Rangers, sharing how special it was for him.

"Scoring my first league goal felt amazing. My mother was very happy and encouraged me to keep going. I want to score more and, hopefully, celebrate a title at the end of the season," he said.

Having started his football journey at age 10 with UEFA De’ Espanyol FC in Umoja Estate before moving to Buruburu Sports, Polepole is eager to secure his first major trophy with Tusker.

"The mood in the camp is very positive. After exiting the FKF Cup, our full focus is on the league. Looking at the table, we know we have a chance, so our goal is to win the remaining nine matches and see where we stand," he noted.

Okere has instilled a “one game at a time” mentality in the squad, reminding them daily that this could be their season.

"We believe it’s possible, and we’re ready to fight. Winning the league in my debut season would be an incredible achievement," Polepole expressed.

Tusker will next travel to face Mara Sugar on April 6 before hosting Nairobi City Stars three days later.

The Brewers currently sit second on the log with 47 points from 25 matches, just one point behind leaders Police FC and four ahead of defending champions Gor Mahia.