Aussems: AFC Leopards not ready to play at Ruaraka grounds

AFC Leopards coach Patrick Aussems has categorically stated they are not ready to play any FKF Premier League matches at Ruaraka grounds.

Ingwe used the pitch on Saturday as they suffered a frustrating 0-0 defeat against Posta Rangers which saw the team reduced to 10 men after Isaac Kipyegon was red-carded in the opening minutes of the second half.

The Belgian tactician had told Goal despite the dropped points, they have already started focusing on their next league game on Thursday but was categorical they are not ready to play at the venue again.

“We have lost the points and have accepted the outcome and we now shift our focus to Thursday, so we all need to have a good recovery because on Thursday we have to be back in action but I hope not on this pitch but maybe another one," Aussems told Goal.

“It is one of the worst pitches I have seen for some time in my entire life, the ball is not moving on the ground and it is also causing player injuries, and it is unfortunate to play in such a condition, I just want to hope and pray we will not be forced to return and play here again.”

Football Kenya Federation is having difficulties securing better venues for the league matches after the government refused to allow them to use Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium which they stated was under renovation.

The decision forced the local federation to use Ruaraka, Utalii and World Hope Centre grounds as an alternative measure but with matches being played twice a week, the pitches cannot sustain the pressure.

Ingwe came into the match at Ruaraka grounds knowing a win will take them joint top with Tusker at the summit of the 18-team table but they could only manage a 0-0 draw and instead, it is KCB who are now at the summit after they thrashed Bandari 3-0.

But despite moving top, KCB coach Zedekiah Otieno has avoided suggestions they are on the right track to secure their first-ever ticket for the Caf Champions League considering FKF declared two weeks ago that the team at the top of the log by June 30, will get the chance to represent the country in the lucrative Caf competition.

“Even though we are focused on our next game against Sofapaka, it is our hope and prayer that we maintain the position until June 30. We are just taking it one game at a time,” Otieno said.

“I’m satisfied with the result and proud of my players’ performance today [Saturday], we stepped up against Bandari after a slow start in the Mathare United game.

“Winning 3-0 against a team of Bandari's calibre at this point of the league means we are a good team. The players know what’s at stake and I feel that’s sweet revenge after Bandari took six points from us last season.”

The Bankers have now moved to 36 points, one more than Tusker, who dropped to second while AFC Leopards are third on 33 points.