Wanjala’s tactical masterclass helps APS Bomet clinch first-ever FKF Premier League win

After weeks of frustration and heartbreak, APS Bomet FC finally announced their arrival in the FKF Premier League with a stunning 2–1 comeback win over Kariobangi Sharks, a result that not only delivered their first-ever top-flight victory but also marked the beginning of a new era under coach Benedict Wanjala.

The newly promoted side had endured a harsh welcome to Kenya’s elite football division, suffering three straight defeats before Saturday's turnaround. For a team still finding its footing in the league, those losses tested their resolve and confidence.

Their debut match at Gusii Stadium ended in a 4–2 defeat to Shabana FC, a baptism by fire that exposed their defensive frailties.

The Black Berets managed to score twice, including a penalty converted by their goalkeeper Cetric and a well-placed free kick, but an own goal and defensive lapses cost them dearly.

In their second outing, they hosted Murang’a Seal, only to fall 2–0 in front of their home supporters. The misery deepened when Kenya Police, the 2024/25 champions, handed them a third consecutive defeat. Police won 1–0 despite playing with 10 men after Marvin Nabwire was sent off in the second half.

Those results prompted the club’s management to take action. Head coach Michael Nam was suspended, with the board citing poor adaptation to the league’s demands.

In his place came Benedict Wanjala, a relatively quiet figure in Kenyan football circles but one with a clear vision and hunger to turn things around.

Just four days after his appointment, Wanjala’s influence was evident. Against Kariobangi Sharks, his side showed new energy, structure, and self-belief qualities that had been missing in their opening matches.

“I have been with the boys for four days only, and this was all about mentality,” Wanjala said after the game. “I told the boys that we can, and they executed my strategy well. As you could see, we were down in the first half.”

Sharks took the lead in the 10th minute through Markvivan Kesa, and for long spells, they appeared to have the game under control. APS, though, refused to fold. In the second half, Wanjala made key substitutions that would define the game.

“I knew my opponent well, so the strategy was to pull them to a high line and then find the space between them,” he explained. “Cantona is a good player. I had prepared him well; he has the pace and he’s good with free kicks.”

His tactical switch paid off when substitute Cantona curled in a beautiful free kick to level the score. Two minutes later, APS Bomet found the winner through Wasiwa, capping an incredible comeback and igniting wild celebrations from the travelling bench.

“Introducing new young players in the dying minutes was a strategy,” Wanjala said. “I knew my opponents were gassed out, so I brought in young energy to salvage at least a point, and it worked.”

The win carried more than just three points. For APS Bomet, it was proof that they could compete and belong in the top tier. It also offered a glimmer of hope to a fan base that had endured weeks of disappointment.

Wanjala, however, insists that this is just the beginning. “We are going to build on this win,” he said. “I don’t know what happened in the three games while I was not there, so this is my first. I chose to forget about the three. This is my first game, and this is our fresh start.”

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APS Bomet will host Kakamega Homeboyz in the mid-week fixture. Homeboyz will be going to Kericho after their impressive 3-1 win over Ulinzi Stars.