FKFPL: Tusker collects first win of new FKF Premier League season as Shabana draw

Chrispine Erambo scored the decisive goal for Tusker FC as they became the first team to register a win on the opening day of the new FKF Premier League season.

The midfielder, who has been tipped to elevate his game in the 2024-2025 campaign, came to the aid of his Brewers side a minute after the hour-mark, firing home a crucial rebound that saw Tusker kickstart their season with a 1-0 win over Sofapaka at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

The win, which was also a first for interim head coach Charles Okere, now sees Tusker take early control of the league standings with three points.

Sofapaka, on the other hand, became the first team to suffer defeat this season, with their off-pitch problems that saw them barely avoid club-licensing sanctions translating onto the pitch.

FKFPL Preview: Sofapaka's season looks doomed before kicking a ball

After a draw in the early kickoff pitting Posta Rangers and Bandari, the trend continued in the other two matches of the afternoon, with KCB, notably under new head coach Patrick Odhiambo settling for a barren stalemate with Kariobangi Sharks at the Police Sacco Grounds.

Henry Juma scores first goal of the season as Posta Rangers hold Bandari in Machakos

The other fixture at Thika Stadium saw Bidco United rally back from a goal down to settle for a 1-1 draw with Shabana FC.

The Glamour Boys seemed to be coasting early on when they scored just after three minutes through Mathew Tegisi, only for Bidco to offer a response minutes after the resumption of the second half when Doulas Mokaya equalized.

The result leaves Shabana fifth, with Bidco a place above them in the embryonic table.

Important win for Tusker on opening day

At full time, Tusker FC posted a picture of their head coach Okere on his knees, giving thanks to the Creator for his first win in management.

Reading it as per Saturday afternoon's events, there was perhaps more reason to do so, as Tusker toiled past a struggling Sofapaka, but somehow found a way to win on Day One - another hard task for teams on the day.

The nature of preparations and signings Tusker had prior to the season made matters more urgent, and the team responded, reaping big rewards from Erambo, who pounced on a George Kaddu blocked ball to net the winner.

Earlier in the contest, Shaphan Siwa had seen two opportunities saved, as did new signing Eric Balecho, showing dominance that you'd expect from a huge contender this season.