Okere thanks Tusker FC's management after honouring request during tough spell

When the 2024/25 FKF Premier League season kicked off, Tusker FC found themselves in unfamiliar territory, placed bottom of the 18-team standings in the opening weeks of the campaign.

The 12-time league champions, known for their consistency, stumbled out of the blocks, losing 2-0 to KCB FC before suffering another setback a week later against Posta Rangers.

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Back-to-back draws against Mathare United and Shabana FC only deepened the early-season gloom, leaving the Brewers perilously in the relegation zone and raising questions about their title ambitions.

It was in this testing period that head coach Charles Okere made a plea for patience, a call that would prove pivotal.

The management answered, giving him the space to work, and gradually, the tide began to turn.

Late October marked the start of Tusker’s revival. A hard-fought 1-0 win over Murang’a Seal on 26 October reignited belief within the squad, followed swiftly by a 2-1 triumph over Kariobangi Sharks three days later.

The victories injected momentum and confidence, transforming a team once under pressure into one finding its rhythm.

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Even a narrow defeat to league leaders Kakamega Homeboyz could not derail the Brewers’ resurgence.

On Friday, 7 November, Tusker returned to winning ways with a decisive 1-0 victory over Bidco United, courtesy of a clinical third-minute strike from Dennis Oalo.

The win extended their unbeaten streak to four matches, lifting them to sixth place on 12 points, just two behind the league leaders.

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Speaking after the match, Okere reflected on the importance of the management’s patience during the club’s rough patch.

"I want to thank the players, the technical bench, but most importantly, the management. We urged them to be patient as we worked on improving results. We assured them the outcomes would come, and I am grateful for their trust. Results do not come instantly; even Rome was not built in a day,” he said.

Okere also singled out Oalo for his pivotal contributions.

Stepping into the role vacated by the injured Erick Kapaito, the former Nairobi City Stars forward has proved himself more than capable, scoring in consecutive matches with his first being in a one-all draw against Kakamega Homeboyz a week ago, giving Tusker a new attacking spark.

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"We lost Kapaito last week, but Oalo stepped up and delivered. It shows the depth and teamwork within this squad. Ultimately, it’s about representing the badge, no matter who steps in,” Okere added.

As Tusker rebuilds momentum, the Brewers are looking to stretch their unbeaten run to five matches when they face defending champions Kenya Police on Sunday, 16 November.