Clinton Kinanga reflects on Police climb from NSL to FKFPL champions

When Clinton Kinanga joined Kenya Police FC in 2017, the club was a modest outfit competing in the National Super League (NSL), and dreams of FKF Premier League glory were far from reality.Fast forward to Sunday, June 15, and the towering striker stood tall at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos as Police etched their name into history with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Shabana to claim their maiden Premier League title.Follow Our WhatsApp Channel For More NewsA 75th-minute header by Brian Okoth secured the vital three points that saw the law enforcers move to 64 points, just enough to dethrone Gor Mahia, who had dominated the past two seasons.The title marked a stunning climax to a carefully built campaign, notably a solid defense that conceded just 16 goals all season, the fewest in the league.Mozzart Sport chatted with Kinanga, who noted that the victory was a sweet reward for years of patience and belief in a dream that never faded.“It has been a long journey with many ups and downs. We almost faced relegation in 2017, but we picked up and gained momentum,” Kinanga recalls.Kenya Police FC to strengthen squad ahead of CAF Champions League debutHe vividly recalled the early days of the club, but his most memorable moment was during the 2019/2020 playoff against Vihiga United, where he scored both home and away.His efforts saw the club earn a historic promotion to the top tier.After earning their long-awaited promotion, the Law Enforcers knew survival was not enough. They had to match the caliber of Kenya’s top-tier clubs.The club wasted no time strengthening its squad, ushering in seasoned players like Clifton Miheso, Duke Abuya, John Makwata, and former skipper Musa Mohammed. These names would soon become synonymous with the Police’s growing ambition.“With experienced players, we started cultivating ambition and unity. In 2021, we finished ninth, and third the next season. When we saw that we could reach third, we told ourselves, this year, we have to win,” he disclosed.##NAJAVA_MECA_8982613##Fuelled by the 2024 Mozzart Bet Cup triumph and guided by a new tactical approach, Police FC began the 2024/2025 season with clear intent.Kinanga, however, knows it was not just talent that brought them the title but years of steady building.“This victory did not fall on a silver platter. It was achieved through steady and proper planning,” he revealed.What makes this victory even sweeter for the striking maestro is that he never took shortcuts.Why former Celtic coach considers Victor Wanyama one of his best signingsAs a police officer, his options were limited. He had interest from other clubs, but transferring was not straightforward.“Police was my only option to play in the Premier League. I had to work hard, be patient, and stay disciplined,” he disclosed.With the title secured and history made, Kinanga’s next challenge is to help Police maintain their momentum.“What won us the league was our approach and tactics. Now, we have to ensure we stay at the top of our game,” he concluded.His efforts were recently recognized when he was promoted from Constable to Corporal in recognition of his long-standing service at the club.

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