FKF Premier League: Ulinzi Stars Hit by Unexpected Setback Ahead of AFC Leopards Clash

• Stephen Ochieng has been ruled out for the rest of the season
• Ulinzi Stars goalkeeper sustaining a posterior cruciate ligament tear
• The team is 11th in the FKF Premier League standings after 17 games

Ulinzi Stars face a tough challenge on the eve of their upcoming encounter with AFC Leopards in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League.

The primary setback comes from the unavailability of their star goalkeeper, Stephen Ochieng', who has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a severe knee injury.

The 29-year-old goalie sustained a posterior cruciate ligament tear during a match against Bidco United on November 5, 2023, putting him on the sidelines for an extended period.

"Goalkeeper Ochieng Stephen will be sidelined for the remainder of the season after sustaining a posterior cruciate ligament tear during our match against Bidco FC last November," said the club on their official Twitter handle.

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Ochieng' has been a pivotal figure for Ulinzi Stars since debuting in October 2021, making this injury a significant blow to the team.

Michael Wanyika has risen to the challenge in the goalkeeper's absence, assuming the role between the goalposts, while the experienced James Saruni remains a reliable backup option on the bench.

Having been a consistent performer for Ulinzi Stars, Ochieng' began his promising career with the Soldiers, debuting against his former club Mathare United.

Ulinzi Stars are 11th in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League standings with 17 points from 16 games.

The team's next test is against AFC Leopards at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, January 7, 2024.

Coach Antony Kimani stressed the need for focus, as reported by Pulse Sports, saying, "One area that we need to work on and focus on that has not worked for us so far is our attacking department. We have been creating numerous opportunities but have not been able to take those chances. The other issue we need to work on is our concentration levels, and that can be because of a few factors."

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Supporters and fans have taken to social media to express their well wishes to Ochieng', hoping for a swift recovery.

FKF Premier League resumes

Sports Brief is awaiting the return of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) this weekend as the curtain falls on the festive season.

The league's hiatus ends, bringing excitement as teams gear up for action after a well-deserved two-week break.

The weekend highlight unfolds at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos, on Saturday, January 6, 2024, where defending champions Gor Mahia prepare to face a formidable challenge from Posta Rangers.