Kakamega Homeboyz defender Salim Murunga has expressed his joy after making his debut for the team.Murunga joined the defending Mozzart Bet Cup champions during the mid-season transfer window from relegation-troubled Nzoia Sugar.##NAJAVA_MECA_8020958##However, the player found it hard to break into the first team due to stiff competition presently at the back, which has an experienced trio of Brian Chala, Salim Hamisi, and Potiphar Odhiambo.After three months of battling for playing time, Murunga finally made his first start for the club on Saturday against Gor Mahia, where the two sides battled out to a scoreless draw at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.Homeboyz coach Patrick Odhiambo drafted in the left-footed defender in the absence of Hamisi, pairing him with the club’s assistant captain Chala at the heart of the defence during the Saturday encounter.Hamisi, one of the club’s mid-season signings, missed the match due to suspension after receiving his marching orders during Homeboyz’s 2-0 triumph over Ulinzi Stars nearly a month ago.Ronald Okoth appointed new Sofapaka CEOMurunga, who predominantly plays at the back and can also play in the defensive midfielder role, says he was thrilled to play his first match in Homeboyz colours.”It was a dream come true for me to play my first match for the team after a long wait. Growing up, I desired to one day turn out for my home team, and I am glad that was a success on Saturday,” stated Murunga.Murunga is in his first season in the top-flight league, having joined Nzoia Sugar last year from National Super League side Rainbow FC.Before switching sides to Homeboyz, the lanky centre-back had scored one goal and assisted four others since his arrival in the FKF Premier League.Milton Nyakundi seeks information on disbursements to FKF from Sports, Arts, and Social Development FundDespite playing last weekend, Murunga acknowledges stiff competition at the back but hopes he can command a starting role when Homeboyz take on the Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday.”There is pressure to perform, and there is high competition at the back. I’m expecting more from my fellow centre-backs, but I’m hopeful I can make two starts in a row,” he concluded.
