Ongori transitioning to central defense

Mathare United head coach Salim Ali has tipped the club’s right back Martin Ongori to transition into a central defender following his solid display during last Sunday's barren draw with Vihiga United at the Ruaraka grounds.

Ongori made his debut at the heart of defence in the match, partnering Lennox Ogutu and earning plaudits from Ali who is now convinced the budding defender is ripe for central defensive role.

Ali surprisingly turned to the youngster ahead of former Harambee Stars centre half David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng’ who warmed the bench.

Despite his diminutive nature, Ongori was comfortable both on the feet and won all aerial duels against the towering Vihiga forwards.

“It was his first time to play as a centre back and he punched above his weight. If he can concentrate on central defending I believe he can become one of the best stoppers in the league. He has given me a new angle to view him going forward,” said the former player.

Mathare who sit at the bottom of the log with seven points are staring at the possibility of bidding the competition farewell should they fail to arrest their poor run.

However, Ali said they will build on the Vihiga draw and fight for their survival. The former Ulinzi Stars boss said the return of Clifford Alwanga was a major boost in the race to beat the drop.

The experienced forward missed the better part of the past rounds thanks to an ankle injury but marked his return to action coming in late in the second half.

“The draw is a welcome result considering that before the break we had lost four consecutive matches. The return of Alwanga is timely as he brings in experience which no one can buy and his availability will play a role in helping the team go back to where it should be,” he added.