Tusker FC custodian Edwin Simiyu marked his Mashujaa Day in style after making his top-flight debut in the 3-1 victory over FC Talanta in a match played at the Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.The 22-year-old shot-stopper was part of the club’s youth set-up for a year and three months and he could not hide his excitement after the realization of a long-term dream.##NAJAVA_MECA_8438128##Speaking after the match, the youngster noted that his inclusion in the senior team was a sign of greater things to come.“I thank God for this chance. I have finally experienced the KPL feeling. Many more to come. I was very tense but I had to redeem myself,” he said.Kenya U20 goalkeeper sets eyes on World Cup after AFCON qualificationSimiyu went on to credit his captain Charles Momanyi for his words of encouragement that kept him going. His teammates too played a key role in making his debut a resounding success.A video posted on Facebook showed the teammates clapping for him just before the match. “Celebrating Edu on his debut today,” the caption read.##NAJAVA_MECA_8438126##“Momanyi played a big role. He spoke to me before the game and also during the game he kept encouraging me to remain calm, play my game and keep it simple. My teammates also encouraged me a lot and they gave me confidence to play that game with their words of encouragement,” Simiyu said.Eliminated Junior Starlets eye strong FIFA World Cup finish against MexicoSimiyu further admitted that he was feeling tense before the game but credited the motivation from his teammates for helping him push through.“I was a little bit tensed at the start but the more my teammates encouraged me, the more confidence I got. I am delighted to have finally made my top-flight debut,” he offered.##NAJAVA_MECA_8438137##With the victory now behind him, the guardian of the goal is hoping to be a regular in the senior team, keen to propel the team to glory in future matches.“This is a great feeling for me and I hope many more to come. I am ready for the competition and if I get another chance, I will do better,” he concluded.Kenyan striker explains motivation behind his 11-club international journeyThe victory marked Tusker’s second of the season after five rounds of matches. Their other win came on the opening day against Sofapaka, followed by two draws and a loss.The 12-time league champions are currently fifth in the FKF Premier League standings with eight points, five behind leaders KCB.##NAJAVA_MECA_8438130##Tusker will be back in action on Wednesday 23 October against military side Ulinzi Stars at Police Sacco Stadium, kicking off at 1300 hrs.
