This archive report was first published on 5 November 2019.
November 5, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the Kenyan Premier League, with Tusker emerging as the new leaders after eight rounds of matches.
Defending champions Gor Mahia, along with Tusker and AFC Leopards, occupy the top three positions on the 18-team standings.
Meanwhile, KCB, Kakamega Homeboyz, Bandari, and Posta Rangers remain mid-table, while newly promoted Kisumu All Stars, struggling duo Sony Sugar and Chemelil Sugar, and fading Kariobangi Sharks are battling relegation.
Tusker's rise to the top can be attributed to their impressive 3-2 win over Nzoia Sugar, courtesy of Timothy Otieno's goal and assist.
Coach Robert Matano, a two-time winner of the competition, remains cautious, stating that there is no reason to celebrate yet.
"We lost to Ulinzi and have won today (Saturday) so that's good. But we lost to Gor Mahia in our first match which tells us we need to be consistent if we are to compete," Matano explained.
AFC Leopards, under the guidance of new chairman Dan Shikanda, Rwandan coach Casa Mbungo, and former Kenya international Anthony Kimani, have also been impressive, earning a barren draw against Ulinzi Stars in an entertaining contest in Machakos.
Ingwe are now unbeaten in seven league matches, with marksmen Whyvonne Isuza and John Mark Makwatta missing easy chances late on.
On the other hand, All Stars, Sony, and Chemelil are struggling at the wrong end of the table, failing to win each of their last five games.
However, Harambee Stars coach Francis Kimanzi will be impressed by the form of forwards Otieno, Makwatta, and Elvis Rupia, who helped himself to a hat-trick as Wazito beat Sony Sugar 4-3 in Machakos.
