Former Gor Mahia winger Boniface Omondi was the hero for the Bankers, who are managed by former Tusker coach Robert Matano, after he grabbed a brace. His first goal came in the 19th minute after he headed home a cross from December Kisakah.
With the Brewers working hard to level the scores, striker Eric Kapaito came close twice in the 24th and 30th minutes. KCB doubled their lead when Omondi found the back of the net from close range for a 2-0 lead at the half-time break.
In the second half, Tusker had another glorious opportunity to reduce the deficit after being awarded a penalty, but Kapaito skied his effort way high for KCB to keep the scoreline.
Tusker must adapt quickly to compete with the best
Speaking after the game, Tusker coach Charles Okere admitted his side were not good enough to challenge KCB for the points.
“It was our first game of the season, and I believe it was a tricky encounter, we were playing against a strong team also, but we congratulate the opponent for the win, they did enough to win the game, it was the first match but I believe we could have done much better than we did,” confessed Okere after the game.
“It is a game that we had planned to tackle well, but it is unfortunate that we conceded those two goals.”
On the performance of his new signings, Okere said: “Well, they are good players and I believe they should adapt quickly in terms of our philosophy and playing style, but I believe given more minutes in terms of training, and even in matches they can do better, because it is all about cohesion in the team, but again it is something that we must work hard to improve on.”
On what he will work on from the defeat, Okere reflected before saying: “We created a couple of scoring opportunities which we didn’t take, we really have to improve moving into the next match, we must have our scoring boots on, we already have pressure and must adapt quickly, so that we will be able to walk the journey with the rest of park.”
Tusker’s best opportunity to reduce the deficit was squandered from the penalty spot by Kapaito. Asked whether the returning striker will be the penalty taker in subsequent matches, Okere responded: “Kapaito is a top striker, somebody, who scores important goals for the team, so for today (Friday), I can say it was a bad day in office for him, but for the next game, if he gets another opportunity, he will still take it and score.”
He concluded: “It is the first game which is as important as the last match, our plan was to get maximum points from this game, but dropping those points is something we should rectify as early as possible, to keep ourselves in a good position to fight for the title.”
Matano lauds KCB’s good start
On his part, the experienced coach Robert Matano hailed KCB for their superb display, adding that his players played according to instructions.
“We had the best confidence and cohesion heading into the fixture, and this is what lifted my team, plus determination and how we prepared as a team, the boys played like I wanted to see from the team, we have been together for the last two months, and it worked for us,” said Matano.
Matano, who has won the Premier League title with four different clubs was asked if he was going for another with the Bankers, he responded: “We have just started the season, the journey is still long, we have played one game and have 33 matches to go, we will talk on the way, but I am there.”
The league action will return on Saturday with Kariobangi Sharks set to host Bandari at Kasarani Annex while AFC Leopards will come up against Sofapaka at Ulinzi Complex.
Follow the FKF Premier League with Flashscore!
