Charles Nyende
6 March 2008
Nairobi — It may be early days, but buoyed by their season opening win against more illustrious opponents, even if only in name, Kenya Commercial Bank have declared their minimum aim is to finish top five in the Kenya Premier League.
"After a dismal performance last season we acquired some experienced players to stabilise the team. My aim is to play some good football and finish in a respective position," KCB coach, Yusuf Chipo, said on Wednesday.
KCB edged out former Kenya glamour club Gor Mahia 1-0 last Saturday to bask in the spot light of joint table leader with Mathare Youth, Chemelil Sugar, Mathare United and Tusker in the 16-team league.
"We had a good game against Gor Mahia but wasted several scoring opportunities. This will be an area we need to work on as we look ahead to a good season," Chipo, a two time league winner with Ulinzi Stars said. KCB finished just above the relegation zone last season and in response signed up several experienced players to help change their fortunes.
Bolster strike force
The most notable is former Harambee Stars defender Pascal Ochieng who has brought in some much needed experience to the bankers. The defender will have felt some tingle of vengeance last weekend in, turning up and winning against his former club Gor which he left under controversial circumstances several years ago.
Harambee Stars trialist George Ondari, formerly with Tusker, has teamed up with ex-Mathare United Ambrose Kamua to bolster the bankers strike force.
Chipo also drafted former Simba SC of Tanzania midfielder Rexine Ongoli.
The bankers have also got plenty of youth in former Kenya Revenue Authority defender Joseph Kangata and St Anthony school boys Collins Kisula and Kevin Kimani.
The bankers face their next test on Saturday against debutants Western Stima.
"The team I have can grow in stature but we need to keep getting the results. Western Stima will be a tough match but we are out to get the three points.
"In a 16-team league every match is decisive. We will be approaching every match as a final," Chipo said.
Successful with former champions Ulinzi, the experienced Chipo will be hoping to transfer that touch on KCB.
Chipo joined KCB in September last year after a stint in DR Congo. Before that he was with Ulinzi.
The KCB tactician has also handled various national teams at the under-17 and under-20 age group levels.
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