This archive report was first published on 9 October 2019.
Kenyan Premier League (KPL) debutantes Kisumu All Stars are facing a tough time in their opening matches, with a string of poor performances that have left them at position 17 on the 18-team table with just one point.
Their latest defeat was a 0-3 loss to Posta Rangers at the Kenyatta Stadium on Monday, a result that has raised concerns about the team's ability to compete in the league.
Coach Henry Omino attributed the poor performance to lack of experience among his players, many of whom are participating in the league for the first time.
“It has been quite a struggle for the players because most of them are participating in the league for the first time,” Omino said.
“They lack experience on the intensity of the matches in the league, and that has been observed when they are easily disoriented by other clubs during matches,” he added.
Specifically, Omino confessed to having a “green” defence that is struggling to cope with the pressure of KPL matches.
“The only problematic department in my team is the defence, but the attack and midfield are okay,” he said.
Despite the struggles, Omino remains optimistic about the team's chances of winning its first match in the top flight.
“The performance should not kill our fan base because we soon will register a win in the coming matches, the players have learnt a lot in the beginner matches,” he assured.
However, the team's struggles are not just limited to on-field performance. There have been concerns about lack of motivation among the players due to delayed pay for the club's staff.
“We lack motivation, despite playing this being a hobby, we really cannot feed on the hobby, our motivation is money,” a source who sought anonymity said.
However, the Kisumu County Government has dismissed the claims, saying the team's allowances have been fully settled.
“We have paid the players all their allowances for the matches they have played, and we have no pending debts with the team,” said Thomas Ouko, the county's Sports Chief Officer.
