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The Bungoma-based side faces a rebuilding phase after a preseason exodus. New coach and promising talents fuel hopes of resurgence.
As curtains rise on the forthcoming 2023/2024 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) season, Nzoia Sugar FC finds itself at a crossroads, seeking to rise from the ashes of a quiet preseason that saw a notable exodus of players.
The departure of key team members leaves a void, but the club management has been steadfast in their commitment to rebuild, restructure, and revitalise.
The team's determination to remain competitive is palpable, fueled by the appointment of a new head of the technical bench and a resolve to unearth fresh talent from the rich footballing grounds of the Western region.
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The offseason turmoil witnessed a mini exodus of players from Nzoia Sugar, prompting concerns about the team's stability.
Departures from the squad led to uncertainty, but the management responded resolutely, embarking on a recruitment drive that focused on identifying promising players from the Western region.
The club's Chairman, Yapets Mokua, emphasised their intent to inject fresh quality into the roster through a rigorous scouting process.
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The coach
As if the roster upheaval was not enough, Nzoia Sugar was dealt another blow with the departure of head coach Salim Babu.
However, out of adversity emerged an opportunity. In the midst of this transitional period, the team announced the appointment of Godfrey "Solo" Oduor as their new head coach. Solo's return to the club, where he had previously guided the team in 2019, brought renewed hope and stability.
When he left, Solo went to take up the assistant coach position at KCB when he agreed to deputise Zico, who was coming from Gor Mahia.
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"I have embraced my comeback with open arms, basking in the club's warm welcome and my own delight. The weight of my role is clear, yet I have reframed it not as pressure, but a forge for my coaching evolution,” he told Pulse Sports.
"In the spotlight of expectations, rather than crumble, I have found the chance to thrive. Where pressure could shackle ambition, I have glimpsed a path to triumph through fresh challenges.”
His deep-rooted connection with the club, combined with his coaching acumen, sets the stage for a reinvigorated Nzoia Sugar.
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The squad
The Nzoia lineup underwent a significant overhaul, with only ten players remaining from the previous season.
Notable names like former captain Vincent Ngesa, Stephen Wakanya, Collins Wakhungu, and Kevin Wafula have joined the ranks of the rejuvenated squad as experienced players.
These additions, along with the existing core of talented players, exemplify the Sugar Millers' commitment to nurturing a blend of experience and youthful energy.
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Among the players bidding farewell to the Sugar Millers are notable figures like James Mwangi, Humphrey Katasi, who clinched the joint Golden Glove award in the 2022/23 season, as well as Vincent Mahiga, Randy Bakari, Hassan Beja, and Boniface Munyendo.
Nonetheless, the core of the team remains intact, with players such as Benson Mangala, Omuse Daniel, Moses Mwale, Steve Otieno, Harun Thomas, Ian Simiyu, Wekesa Elisha, Emanuel Esekon, Dan Wafula, and Leonard Kasembeli continuing to lend their expertise to the club cause.
Despite the challenges posed by past financial instability, no prominent signings are anticipated before the closure of the transfer window in mid-September. However, there are indications that a positive shift is on the horizon with the newly elected board.
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A blend of prudent management and astute financial planning appears to be revitalising Nzoia Sugar's aspirations.
Stars in the making
Among the current roster, midfielder Leonard Kasembeli, striker Steve Otieno, and defender Emanuel Esekon stand out as potential game-changers.
Kasembeli's adept control over the midfield orchestrates both offensive thrusts and defensive solidity.
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His vision and finesse in passing set the tempo for his team's gameplay, making him an invaluable asset on the field.
Steve Otieno boasts a natural instinct for goal-scoring. His lethal combination of speed and accuracy poses a constant threat to opponents, often turning matches on their head.
On the part of Esekon, his tactical awareness, and resolute defending provide a foundation of stability, curbing adversary advances.
Their presence within the squad brings a sense of continuity and stability, ensuring that the new recruits integrate seamlessly into the team dynamics.
Tough opening fixtures
They will next face Muhoroni Youth away before welcoming Bidco United in their third match. Their fourth match will be against Nairobi City Stars away before they welcome Murang’a Seal.
Success in these matches instills a winning culture, boosting player self-belief and fan enthusiasm.
While the opponents may vary in difficulty, each victory reinforces Nzoia's aspiration for a successful season, translating into improved performance, league standing, and a path toward potential accolades.
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Expected finish
Immediately after his appointment, coach Solo in his first speech emphasised that while they have not set specific targets for the season, their overarching aim is to deliver a commendable performance and wrap up the season on a high note.
In the previous season, the Sugar Millers secured a respectable fourth-place finish and were a prominent contender.
However, the introduction of new players poses a challenge as they require time to establish synergy.
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Anticipating a relatively slower start in the initial round, the team is poised to gather momentum in the latter half of the league.
This resurgence could introduce heightened competitiveness to the league, potentially paving the way for a coveted placement within the top six positions.
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