Ascending from the relegation zone to the 8th position is no small feat. Credit is due to Trucha and the entire technical staff for this impressive turnaround.
The beginning of the 2023-2024 season proved challenging for Ingwe, with just one victory in the first nine matches, leaving them sitting on the plate of relegation with a mere four points.
It is this pressure that mounted, resulting in the dismissal of head coach Tom Juma and the reappointment of Czech tactician Thomas Trucha. Calls for team chairman Dan Shikanda’s resignation echoed across social media, attributing the team’s struggles to his leadership.
Trucha faced an uphill battle in his initial weeks, securing only one win, a draw, and a loss in the first three matches. However, after gameweek 21a turning point has been seen for Ingwe, this marked by a draw against Kakamega Homeboyz. Remarkably, Ingwe has now gone unbeaten in seven consecutive matches, amassing 31 points and securing the 8th position in the league standings.
Despite a modest goal-scoring record in this unbeaten streak, AFC has demonstrated a tenacity to clinch victories in their upcoming matches. Trucha and his assistant, Ambani, appear to be bringing about a positive shift, dominating the full 90 minutes of the games played.
Ascending from the relegation zone to the 8th position is no small feat. Credit is due to Trucha and the entire technical staff for this impressive turnaround.
However, Trucha acknowledged internal issues before the Derby game against Kakamega, raising concerns among fans.There are also Reports from internal sources indicating that Ingwe players refused to train last week in protest of the non-payment of their KES. 20,000 winning allowance for the last four victories, until their allowance is settled fully. The supporters are optimistic that these problems won’t disrupt the positive momentum the team has built. Dan Shikanda should solve this problem as quick as possible.
Acknowledgment is also due to the team management for transparent financial practices, a critical aspect considering the financial challenges spanning over two decades. The introduction of E-tickets early last year has been a commendable move embraced by AFC fans, ensuring accountability for every cent spent.
The unwavering patience and support exhibited by the Ingwe fan base over the past two decades and so is recommendable. Their disciplined, turn out and enthusiastic presence, notably at Bukungu, sets a standard for other teams like Shabana to emulate.
We hope that Ingwe will maintain their dominance in the remaining matches and anticipates a strong revival in the upcoming seasons. The fans’ enduring commitment and the team’s positive signs suggest a brighter future, breaking the drought that has persisted since their last Premier League title in 1998 and the FKF President’s Cup triumph in 2017.
From their dominance we are confident the iconic 12-time Kenyan premier champions have a potential to secure a top-four finish this season and anticipates their resurgence in the following year.
Tongoa media 