Among the multitude of unfancied names through the doors at an erstwhile deserted Kariobangi Sharks in the last transfer window is an exciting centre back; Nakuru-born Kevin Luke Otiala. The tall 24-year-old is already grabbing the headlines since making his debut and becoming a consistent starter for Kariobangi Sharks in the recently concluded inaugural edition of the Elite Preseason Tournament.Sharks were clearly punching above their weights in the tournament after massive squad overhaul. They nonetheless, made it out the group before narrowly losing to fellow FKF Premier League side Nairobi City Stars 3-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw inside 90 minutes. Among the goal scorers in the pulsating shootout was the left footed centre back, who slotted in a penalty past Steve Njung’e in the City Stars goal to break his duck, just four games into his new club.“It was such a great feeling to get that goal. It took courage to step up and take the penalty but that’s what I am all about.” Kevin Luke told Mozzart Sport as he recounted the special moment.You’d be mistaken to think that scoring his first goal was the only memorable thing that day. ‘Modo’ as he is popularly known, would also carry the huge responsibility of leading the team as club captain. That, however, didn’t seem so unfamiliar for him as he narrates: “Being club captain so early on didn’t faze me. I was used to being one at my former club [St Joseph’s].” He however, attributed the decision to join Sharks fraternity to a strong force behind and early success.##NAJAVA_MECA_6698112##The defender’s story would go back to early this year when Kevin Luke and his St Joseph’s side stormed to clinching the WaterBuck Tournament (a Nakuru based club tournament). Amidst the on-looking crowd in the final was the keen eye of Kariobangi Sharks head coach William Muluya who was visibly impressed with the quality on show.“Coach William approached me straight after the game and acknowledged my efforts, lauding my combative play in defense.” Otiala recalls. He was interested to have me in his team and therefore invited me for trials.” He added.It was the vision and the body of work that sold him (Luke) to William Muluya as he quickly gathered the interests of other FKF Premier League clubs namely; Nzoia United, Kakamega Homeboyz and Ulinzi Stars. Ray Omondi: Former AFC Leopards forward breaking the glass ceiling in coaching“From the way he is playing and his overall conduct on the pitch, one can easily tell that he is a leader. One can rarely tell that we signed him from the lower tiers as he looks comfortable in a level that is demanding.” Muluya told Mozzart Sport following his captain’s solid performance against Sofapaka in the Elite Preseason Tournament opening game.“My head coach has been very accommodative, he has integrated me well into the team and I am hoping to have a great season with him in the Premier League.” Kevin Luke adds, saying that the coach is a lover of his organizational skills, a trait he is willing to instill in his new side this season.
