When Muhoroni Youth were promoted to the Kenyan Premier League at the beginning of this season, there were doubts about whether they deserved to be in the top league.

Muhoroni Youth coach Alfred Imonje

The team earned promotion at a time when the lower league was replete with many irregularities and many thought they would go down as fast as they climbed.

But half-way through the season, coach Alfred Imonje says they have done everything to prove their credentials and are determined to get even better.

Muhoroni shocked Sofapaka on Friday by holding the former KPL champions to a 2-2 draw in a result that Imonje says makes them deserve a place in the top league.

It was one of their best results this season and only second to that 1-0 win they registered against Gor Mahia in February.

“Our aim is to ensure we remain in the KPL next season and then we can fight for a top eight position next season. We have done everything to deserve a place in the top league next season including results against top and experienced teams,” he said.

Three months ago, Imonje seemed to have fallen out with the top brass at Muhoroni Youth, something which caused him to leave the club for a while and he says his absence affected the team a great deal.

Team spirit

“We were so used to each other and had built a united team spirit. When I left this was affected and it is the reason for the poor results. This is now behind us as we have resolved our differences and are ready to work together again,” he said.

Imonje is not even worried by the recent departure of top striker Godfrey Simiyu to Sony Sugar and insists they have recruited equally well to cover up for the loss.

“There are very many good players and the transfer window has helped us bridge the gap. We are not worried, but are happy that he has got greener pastures to pursue his career elsewhere,” he added.

Sofapaka displaced

Elsewhere, Tusker remained at the top of the standings despite being held to a 1-1 tie by Chemelil away.

The KPL champions remain at the top of the summit on 36 points. AFC Leopards displaced Sofapaka from second position with 34 points after an important 1-0 win over Sony away.

Tusker leave the country this week to take part in the regional club championships that starts on July 14 to 28.

By Gilbert Wandera, The Standard