Transformed Nakumatt aiming to go as high as possible

Nakumatt FC were the biggest winners in round 20 of the Kenya Premier League (KPL) at the weekend, scoring six goals against Kakamega Homeboyz at Camp Toyoyo .

The retailers roped in an American tactician who has thus far managed to overturn the fortunes of the club after a tough start to the season that saw them slip to the relegation zone.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, head coach Melis Medo downplayed the upsurge of his team while also shrugging off any questions on his team’s season targets.

“Our target is to go as far as we can and hope for the best. I cannot say for certain if relegation is still a threat. Our approach is to focus on every game as it comes. We keep our heads down because there is still a long way to go.  We will try to maximize as much as we can and be realistic,” said Medo.

The tactician is adamant that his influence is not the sole reason for Nakumatt’s rise in form, citing a “good blend” at the club as a crucial factor.

“We have not changed anything in the team. We are using the same players who were here since the league started. It is all about the information we get, understanding the players, and having a good environment to execute our plans. Football is simple and we want to keep it that way,” noted the American

The weekend win was Nakumatt’s fourth victory in five games, taking them to 12th on the standings with 23 points. The retailers next assignment is against  struggling Chemelil Sugar who are yet to get a win in their last four games.

In Kisumu, Gor Mahia’s momentum to the league title continued as they hit the 40 point mark, opening a six-point gap at the helm of the league. They capitalized on Mathare’s slip-up as they seek to put any hopes of a title fight to rest.

Sofapaka  meanwhile dislodged Mathare to go second on 34 points with the ‘Slum Boys’ moving below them. Only a point separates second and third.

Tusker and Wazito retain their league positions on 11th and 18th respectively having played to a 1-1 draw in Ruaraka.

In a post match interview, coach Frank Ouna said he was contented with the draw terming it a ‘good point’. He is hoping that the point will galvanize his side for the remainder of the season as they battle relegation.

There were no goals at the Afraha Stadium as Ulinzi and Bandari played to a barren draw. The soldiers who have had a dip in form after a flying start will face unbeaten Gor in their next fixture at Afraha on Saturday.

WEEKEND RESULTS

Mathare United 1-1 Vihiga United

Zoo FC 1-1 Sony Sugar

AFC Leopards 2-0 Chemelil Sugar FC

Nakumatt FC 6-1 Kakamega Homeboyz

Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 Posta Rangers

Nzoia Sugar FC 1-3 Gor Mahia

Sofapaka 3-0 Thika United

Ulinzi Stars 0-0 Bandari

Tusker FC 1-1 Wazito FC