Ulinzi Stars head coach, Danstun Nyaudo, has revealed the tactical approach he employed in their decisive 2-1 victory over Nairobi City Stars on Sunday afternoon at the Dandora Stadium.
The much needed victory that came via set pieces broke their seven-match winless streak.
Ulinzi came from behind to claim the victory after Kelvin Etemesi had given Nicholas Muyoti’s side the lead.
However, Amatton Samunya equalized with a well-placed free kick from Boniface Muchiri before halftime. In the second half, Brian Kafero sealed the win for the KDF side, securing their first three points after seven weeks of a winless spell.
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Following the win, which lifted them three places clear of the relegation zone, Nyaudo explained that his team had been creating chances all season but had struggled to capitalize on them due to bad luck.
“We have been playing well but unlucky all the time. We have been creating chances, and in this match against Nairobi City Stars, we had four clear opportunities. I am proud of my players. They executed our game plan perfectly, and we earned the three points. I believe this victory marks the beginning of a new face for us,” Nyaudo said after the match.
He also acknowledged the mounting pressure, especially from the fans, who had been demanding results. Nyaudo stated that the fans had every right to hold the team accountable.
“The pressure was there. The fans were unhappy, and rightfully so. We have always taken their criticism and frustration constructively because this is their team. That is why, today, the players were determined to deliver a win as a Christmas gift,” he added.
“As a coach, you must be prepared for the criticism when results aren’t favorable. Fans will always point fingers at you.”
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The former Harambee Stars player also shared his thoughts on the tactical shift that inspired the much-awaited victory.
He explained that he had opted to adopt a more attacking style of play, similar to that of other top-tier clubs, to secure the three points.
“I chose to focus on attacking football rather than defending. I’ve noticed that nearly every team in the Premier League this season is playing not just for entertainment but to secure points. That’s exactly what we aimed to do today,” he remarked.
Danstun Nyaudo declares league fiercely competitive
Nyaudo further emphasized that the league has become increasingly competitive and that the title race is wide open.
“The league is very competitive now, and anyone can win it. I’m certain of that. In 2003, we were at the bottom of the log, but by the end of the season, we were top, and we successfully defended our title for the next two seasons. So, the league is still open for anyone to win,” he concluded.
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