GSofapaka youngster Baron Ochieng has explained how veteran coach Robert Matano has converted him from a defender to a winger.Ochieng, originally a right-back, has played in a more advanced role in Sofapaka’s last three matches in the FKF Premier League.##NAJAVA_MECA_8598367##The Kenya Under-20 defender has impressed in his new position, with two assists showcasing his impact in the role. He shared with Mozzart Sport how coach Matano made the decision.”The coach gave me my first game as a winger, and I provided an assist. He also noticed that I like overlapping during training, and I’m good when I push forward,” said Ochieng.His attacking ability, combined with the abundance of defensive options at Matano’s disposal, prompted the Dagoretti High School alumnus to move forward.”At the same time, we have depth at the back, and he told me that based on my strengths, he wants to play me as a winger. As a player, you have to adapt to whichever position you are fielded in,” he added.Last season, Batoto ba Mungu had a poor campaign and only managed to retain their league status via a playoff.However, the 2009 champions have experienced a change of fortune this season with the arrival of four-time league champion Robert Matano from Tusker FC. Ochieng shared his thoughts on the team’s progress in 2024.Harambee Stars keeper dreams of playing for Manchester United”We continue to collect points and approach each game one at a time. As the coach always says, the league is a marathon, so we give our best at every stage without losing focus,” he said.Ochieng has earned a call-up to the Harambee Stars squad that will compete in the Mapinduzi Cup, scheduled to take place from Friday, 3 January 2025, to Monday, 13 January 2025.After 15 rounds of matches, Sofapaka are seventh in the league standings with 21 points.The Elly Kalekwa-owned side will return to action on Saturday, 4 January, with a clash against KCB FC.Why Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards need a local coach – Ken Kenyatta
