Ulinzi Stars skipper James Saruni was conspicuously missing from the matchday squad in the 1-0 win over Mathare United on Saturday with assistant coach Francis Ochieng’ revealing that the custodian has been unwell.Saruni made a return to the Harambee Stars lineup as he took his place on the bench in the 1-0 loss to Mali in the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup qualifiers last Sunday.The veteran was however not included in the matchday squad to face Mathare United with Stephen Ochieng tasked to fill his gloves and Jacktone Odhiambo deputizing on the bench.Francis Ochieng revealed that Saruni had a bout with illness but downplayed the severity of his condition as could feature in subsequent games.“James Saruni is our captain and has been unwell, he missed the match due to health issues but it is nothing serious,” said Ochieng.Clinton Omondi scored the match-winner in the second half to extend Ulinzi’s 100% start to the season after victory in their opening clash against Nzoia Sugar. With Ulinzi next taking on Bidco United who are winless thus far this season, Ochieng noted that they will be aiming for another win. “We have a midweek clash against Bidco United at home, we will be aiming for the same result, we want maximum points and nothing less than that,”“We are going to play in our backyard and we are going to use all the chances we have,” concluded the assistant coach.
