KCB FC assistant coach Jeffer Odongo cited injuries to key players as a major factor in their 2-2 draw against Kakamega Homeboyz, lamenting the absence of dependable first-team members who could have influenced the match’s outcome.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe Bankers, despite twice taking the lead, failed to hold on, ultimately settling for a share of the spoils in a contest that showcased their vulnerabilities.PLAYER RATINGS: Few standouts from lacklustre Mashemeji DerbyThe absence of lead scorer Francis Khairo and the defensive duo of Kelvin Okumu and Haniff Wesonga was felt as KCB struggled to maintain control.Notably, Okumu and Khairo had both found the net in their previous 2-1 comeback victory over Ulinzi Stars, underlining their importance to the squad.##NAJAVA_MECA_8814229##Wesonga, on the other hand, remains sidelined for an extended period, having undergone knee surgery that has kept him out of action for the past three months.Speaking after the match, Odongo expressed his disappointment over missing the injured players and how their absence impacted the result.Shabana smashes gate collection record in dominant win over Murang’a SEAL“We have been dealing with injury concerns affecting some of our most reliable players. Today, we missed Okumu and Khairo, both of whom scored last weekend. Their absence certainly had an impact on our performance, but we remain optimistic with the squad we have,” he stated.##NAJAVA_MECA_8814233##The former Kakamega Homeboyz tactician also pointed to lapses in concentration as a critical factor in KCB’s inability to secure maximum points.Despite possessing the lead in both halves, the Bankers allowed the 2023 Mozzart Bet Cup champions to capitalize on defensive frailties, denying them a crucial victory.Stars Abroad: Ayunga shines for St. Mirren as Okumu stands tall for Reims“It was a tough match, and while securing a point away from home is commendable, we had the game in our hands. Unfortunately, defensive errors cost us, and Homeboyz took full advantage,” he added.Despite the setback, Odongo remains confident in KCB’s ability to mount a serious title challenge. The draw sees them remain fourth in the 18-team league standings with 40 points, nine behind league leaders Kenya Police FC.##NAJAVA_MECA_8814237##They also trail second-placed Tusker by seven points and sit three adrift of defending champions Gor Mahia, whom they face in their upcoming fixture.“With nine matches remaining, there are still plenty of points to fight for. We are very much still in the title race,” he asserted.
