File | NATION Ulinzi players and officials celebrate after being crowned league champions last weekend. The team’s management is already planning for the new season, especially the Caf champions League.
By Odindo Ayieko oayieko@yahoo.co.ukPosted Wednesday, November 17 2010 at 20:00
In Summary
- New Kenya champions already laying strategies for their maiden participation in the Caf Champions League next year
Ulinzi Stars, the 2010 Kenyan Premier League champions have started planning for the Africa Champions League next year.
The military side will be representing the country in the continental club championships for the first time despite having been crowned Kenya champions three times before and team manager Joe Birgen says they are up to the task.
Ulinzi were champions in 2003, 2004 and 2005 but, due to financial problems, they failed to participate in the Champions League in 2004, earning the wrath of the Confederation of African Football who slapped them with a two-year ban.
But Birgen says with the club now earning Sh1.5 million to prepare for the Africa Champions League and a further Sh1.5 million as champions, they will definitely participate in the competition.
“Of course it will cost more to prepare a team and participate but we are ready to carry the country’s flag in the competition,” said Birgen.
Coach Benjamin Nyangweso says he will strengthen the team by bringing in new players.
“We are not going to just sit and celebrate. Of course we need to take time off for all this to sink in but there is no relaxing.
“We are already focusing on how best we can represent the country and make an impact and also successfully defend the Kenyan Premier League title next season.
“It has not been easy. We have fought hard, we have noticed some loopholes which will be sealed in time for next season.”
Wants chance given to Gor
Ulinzi emerged winners of the 2010 season with 59 points, three above their closest challengers Gor Mahia.
The soldiers sealed victory with a 2-0 beating of Karuturi Sports while Gor Mahia’s campaign ended with a barren draw against Nairobi City Stars.
Ulinzi will also represent the country in the East and Central Africa Club championships later next year.
Former Kenya Football Federation treasurer Noordin Taib however wants the chance to be given to Gor Mahia.
The former football official said that will help to take the burden off Ulinzi who will also play in the Military championships in Mombasa next week.
Sofapaka will play in the Caf Cup after winning the Football Kenya Limited (FKL) Cup.
The 2009 KPL champions played in the Champions League this year but failed to go past the first round but Nyangweso says Ulinzi are capable of going to the money stage of the competition.
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