Leopards players refuse to make Chemelil trip over pay

A go-slow at AFC Leopards has jeopardized preparations for their Saturday Kenyan Premier League (KPL) clash against Chemelil Sugar, with players refusing to travel to Kisimu over unpaid allowances.

A section of players who opened up to Citizen Digital on condition of anonymity revealed their Friday morning road trip to Kisumu had been delayed, as officials had shown no sign of settling the matter.

“We have refused to board. We are scattered at the City Centre, waiting for official conclusion of the matter. We are demanding allowances for three matches this season, Wazito FC, Mathare United and Kakamega Homeboyz. There are arrears dating back to last year,” said one of the players.

According to the player, a win at home is rewarded KSh. 7000, while an away win attracts KSh. 8000.

Thus, from the three matches, two played home and one away; the club owes players Ksh. 24,000 each.

Efforts to reach officials for a comment on the unfolding mild protests proved futile.

However, the players revealed they were ready to play but insisted ‘they had to communicate in the only language understandable by the management.’

Leopards are fifth in the KPL standings with 20 points, seven adrift their eternal rivals Gor Mahia who top despite playing two matches lesser.

The development comes just a week after newly appointed coach Rodolfo Zapata took over at the den.