Inside Ian Simiyu’s Plan to Fill Ryan Ogam’s Boots at Tusker After Maiden Season Goal Against Shabana

Tusker forward Ian Simiyu has vowed to step up and fill the gap left by departed striker Ryan Ogam after scoring his first goal of the 2025/26 season during the 1-1 draw with Shabana at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Simiyu came off the bench to equalize for the Brewers, showing composure and sharpness as he capitalised on a defensive lapse to beat the goalkeeper with a low finish — a goal that earned Tusker a crucial point in their hunt for form this campaign.

The goal also marked a personal breakthrough for the former Nzoia Sugar striker, who joined the club last February and has been working to establish himself as a reliable attacking option under head coach Robert Matano.

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“I am grateful to God because it was not easy. I knew I would score,” Simiyu said after the match. “I have been working hard on and off the pitch, so when I finally scored, it was a reward for that effort.”

With Ogam now at Austrian side Wolfsberger AC following an outstanding CHAN 2024 campaign with Harambee Stars, Tusker have been looking for a new attacking leader — and Simiyu believes he’s ready to take up that challenge.

“This season, I am coming with the mentality to give my best in every game I play,” he added. “Whether I start or come off the bench, I want to be as efficient as possible and contribute to the team’s success.”

The striker also emphasised the importance of chemistry in a squad that has undergone notable changes this season, including the return of Erick Kapaito, another attacking threat expected to shoulder part of the scoring responsibility.

“We have new players and we are still trying to gel and build understanding,” Simiyu said. “But I believe we have the potential to become one of the best teams in Kenya again.”

Simiyu, who signed a two-year deal with the Ruaraka-based side, joined Tusker after an impressive spell at Nzoia Sugar, where he netted 13 goals — performances that made him one of the most sought-after strikers in the FKF Premier League.

As Tusker aim to climb up the table after a slow start, Simiyu’s emergence could be the spark they need to rediscover their attacking edge and revive their title ambitions.