Tusker FC striker Erick Kapaito has declared that he is ready to take up the challenge of replacing departed forward Ryan Ogam by delivering decisive goals, as the Brewers aim to reclaim the SportPesa League crown this season.
The two-time Golden Boot winner returned to Tusker last month after a difficult stint in Tanzania with Namungo FC. His homecoming offers him the chance to rediscover the prolific form that once made him one of the most feared strikers in the league.
At Ruaraka, Kapaito steps into the gap left by Ogam, who secured a move to Austrian side Wolfsberger AC following a standout campaign. Ogam netted 15 goals in just 17 appearances before injury cut short his season, with many believing he was on track to set a new scoring record in Kenyan football.
Speaking ahead of the new campaign, Kapaito said his pre-season form has boosted his confidence, and he is determined to surpass the 12 league goals he scored for Tusker in the 2023/24 season.
“They have really motivated me, to be honest. I worked hard in pre-season to build momentum, and those five goals I scored during preparations have given me even more belief. My ambition is to match and then improve on my previous tally with Tusker,” Kapaito told Telecomasia.
Tusker, who finished fourth last season after faltering in the decisive stages despite a strong start, have made winning the title their top priority this year. Kapaito believes the squad is strong enough to deliver.
“I know my abilities, and I believe I can deliver. As a team, we are ready for the season, and the target has been set clearly from the beginning: to win the league. I want to contribute with goals and help the team achieve that,” he said.
The Brewers were also one of the busiest teams in the transfer window, signing 14 new players. Among the arrivals are Issa Rashid Lumumba, Vincent Otieno Owino, Dennis Ochieng Oalo, Cliff Omondi Oruko, Ronny Otieno, Yakeen Mutheli, Curtis Amos Wekesa, Eugene Ikutwa, Francis Oduor, Brandon Obiero, Douglas Nyasosi Manga, David Polepole, and George Ochieng.