Homeboyz here to stay, Toto assures

Kakamega Homeboyz FC chairman, Cleophas ‘Toto’ Shimanyula has fired a warning shot to SportPesa Premier League (SPL) top dogs that the newly promoted side has enough depth in their squad to compete for the coveted crown this season.

Homeboyz, who boast a huge fan base in Kakamega County, were forced down to the second tier league two years ago after winning a paltry six of their 30 league matches but Toto says they are now a completely different team.

“Our aim is to stay up this season and after beating Western Stima and Posta Rangers, we are confident we can achieve more than just avoiding the drop. Generally it’s a good start for us and we’ve managed positive results against top sides,” the local businessman with interests in public transport who bankrolls the club said.

Homeboyz are yet to find a sponsor and Toto expressed fear it could be the only obstacle for his team this season.

“Most Premier League sides already have bumper deals from big firms such as SportPesa and Crown Lager so they can afford more facilities. The best players are usually wage-demanding so at the moment it’s going to be a challenge for us but I’m confident of the squad we already have,” he asserted.

-No Corruption-

Homeboyz’ new coach Mike Mururi who was previously in charge of Chemelil Sugar, echoed his chairman’s words saying his team can match any top flight side.

“I have confidence in my team. The majority of the squad is made up of young players so I know they are hungry to fight for a place in the team and achieve something with us. The more experienced players will provide good leadership for the team,” said the former international who played for AFC Leopards, Chemelil and Oserian FC in the top flight before coaching the sugar millers until last season.

Shimanyula assured Homeboyz supporters that the team’s management will not involve itself in corruption saying they are keen to cut a good public image.

“We will need our fans to rally behind us all season if we are going to achieve any concrete achievement this season. We will not let them down and commit ourselves to finish at the top half of the league,” he said.

Homeboyz are in eighth position with seven points after five round and travel  to  Nairobi to face their Western ‘kin’ AFC Leopards at Nyayo Stadium in their next SPL clash in the battle of carrying the bragging rights in Kakamega.

Report by Godfrey Ashiali