Leopards’ officials should get their act right to stop the slide
Last weekend, hooliganism reared its ugly head again when irate AFC Leopards fans threw objects onto the pitch, disrupting a match against Thika United before holding officials hostage.
Hooliganism is a shame and has no place in modern football.
Everyone involved should step up efforts to eradicate it.
But jumping to conclusion, we must interrogate the events and circumstances that led to the madness.
The average Ingwe fan is frustrated by the manner in which the National Executive Committee has handled the recruitment of a new coach to replace James Nandwa who was sacked nearly two months ago.
Recently hired assistant coach Abdalla Juma has done nothing to appease fans.
Coach’s issue
The coach’s issue should be dealt with quickly.
Trevor Morgan, Khalid Arioua, Luc Eymael and Zdravko Logarusic have been linked to the club, but none has signed a contract.
Supporters are equally dissatisfied players’ recruitment. Leopards let go of Patillah Omotto, Michael Wandera and Bernard Ongoma, in spite of the trio showing immense potential.
Omotto (20), Wandera and Ongoma (each 18) were seen as the future of Ingwe..
The new signings Player of The Year Jacob Keli from KCB, former Sofapaka captain James Situma, Joseph Shikokoti, Titus Wamalwa, Wyclef Kasaya and Khalid Jumaan are wanting.
The Ingwe community felt cheated by the expensive hiring of the towering Shikokoti who has made no impact.
Poor campaign
This, combined with a disastrous campaign this season so far, pushed the Ingwe nation to their limits.
During the chaotic match, Leopards was trailing a well-polished Thika United when hell broke loose.
Angry fans confronted secretary general George Aladwa demanding answers. A supporter from Kawangware identified only as Ombasa said some officials had divided attention.
“They should quit their positions in the club and concentrate on politics. It is clear that they are so immersed in politics at the expense of club business,” he said.
Managemen had the time to avoid such ugly scenes. Sacking youngsters for over 30-years-old players was ill-advised.