Kakamega Homeboyz make triumphant return after domestic cup exploits
Kakamega Homeboyz have been accorded a heroic welcome in Kakamega after making history by winning the domestic cup.
The triumph, a 1-0 win over Tusker, ensures the team also secure qualification to compete in the Caf Confederation Cup for the first time in the club’s history.
Homeboyz on Saturday won the tournament, christened the MozzartBet Cup by edging out Tusker courtesy of a Kevin Amwayi 73rd minute strike in an epic finale staged at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.
This was the first silverware the club lifted since it was formed in 2010 by Kakamega tycoon Cleophas Shimanyula.
Following the club’s formation, Homeboyz had her debut season in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League in 2013/14 season.
On July 3, 2023, Abana ba Ingoo, as Homeboyz are famously referred to, were recieved with celebrations as residents lined up a long the streets of Kakamega and cheered the team.
Ecstatic supporters were on a big lorry with music playing as others escorted a fleet of vehicles which sneaked their way throug various street in the town to showcase the trophy.
The trophy was mounted in one of the vehicles.
The traditional dancers also graced the occasions with songs of praise directed at the triumphant team.
The party hit its crescendo when the convoy made its way to Bukhungu Stadium and the players were recieved by Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, County Government officials, club chairman Cleophas ‘Toto’ Shimanyula and other supporters who had filled the stands.
Barasa heaped praises on the club for beating giants like Gor Mahia, Tusker and AFC Leopards and awarded the players Sh200,000.
The money was recieved by the club captain and midfielder Moses Mudavadi as his teammates cheered.
The ODM Governor also promised to work with the national government to ensure the refurbishment and rehabilitation of Bukhungu Stadium to enable it host continental matches.
“We should be playing continental matches in this ground and that is why we are planning to renovate it and also plant grass on the playing surface again,” said Barasa.
“You have made Kakamega proud and I promise you that I will be attending your continental matches and give you necessary support as your number one fan. Congratulations for winning this trophy and we want you to win even the Caf trophy,” added Barasa.
Shimanyula introduced the team to the governor and promised that this is just the start of path to success and glory in coming years.
Apart from Barasa’s donation, Homeboyz recieved Sh2 milion from the tournament organizers Football Kenya Federation (FKF) for winning the domestic trophy.
Their sponsors MozzartBet also said they will top up with another Sh1 million with Shimanyula also adding the same amount as a way of appreciating his team.
In the 2021/22 season Homeboyz came close to winning the Kenyan league title for the first time but lost on the final day to Tusker on goal difference after both teams tied on points.
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