Is confidence the key? Unpacking goal surge in week three of FKF Premier League

© Gor Mahia

FOOTBALL Is confidence the key? Unpacking goal surge in week three of FKF Premier League

Festus Chuma 11:40 - 21.09.2023

Week three of FKF Premier League saw an astonishing goal surge as coaches' confidence-building tactics and player rotations paid off.

As the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) gears up for week four action, the spotlight remains on the unexpected goal surge witnessed during week three.

With a tally of 21 goals across the matches, it is clear that something special unfolded on the pitches, leaving fans and experts alike buzzing with excitement.

In stark contrast to the modest seven goals of matchday one and the slightly improved 15 goals in week two, the surge in scoring during week three has raised eyebrows and prompted many to ask: What ignited this goal-scoring frenzy?

Leading the charge in this offensive spectacle is Gor Mahia, who struck the net four times in their latest showdown. Gor Mahia, along with Posta Rangers, have emerged as the teams to watch, notching up an impressive tally of goals. But what is  the secret behind this sudden surge in the back of the net?

https://x.com/Officialfkfpl/status/1704421979275567565?s=20

Nzoia Sugar's head coach, Godfrey "Solo" Oduor, shared his insights on this captivating development, where he pointed out that the surge in goal-scoring is indicative of the newfound confidence instilled by the coaches in their players.

"It is very good for the league as it shows that coaches have instilled confidence in players. If you look at it, only one player has scored three out of 42 goals,” Solo noted in an interview with Pulse Sports

Indeed, a closer examination of the data reveals a fascinating trend: a diverse distribution of goal-scorers across the league. 

"From the data, you can see that in every team, there are different players who have scored. I think the different rotations that most coaches have been making, giving players a chance, have been effective,” he emphasized.

This focus on rotation has given players an opportunity to shine and has bolstered their belief in themselves. Coaches seem to be embracing a more dynamic approach, spreading the responsibility of scoring across the team. The result? A league filled with hungry players eager to make their mark on the score sheet.

But it does not stop there. Oduor highlighted another significant factor contributing to the goal bonanza – the newfound aggressiveness in set pieces. Even defenders, traditionally tasked with preventing goals, have been getting in on the action. This increased willingness to venture forward and participate in set pieces is a testament to the growing confidence among players in the FKF Premier League.

Gor Mahia's Benson Omala currently leads the goal-scoring charts with three goals to his name. Close on his heels are Jackson Macharia and Peter Thiongo of Posta Rangers, both with two goals each. 

As it stands, Posta Rangers sit atop the league table with seven points after completing three rounds of matches, a testament to their early-season prowess. 

Nzoia Sugar, despite their impressive goal-scoring exploits, currently find themselves in fifth place on the standings.

As the FKF Premier League enters its fourth week, fans can only hope that the goal-scoring frenzy continues to captivate and entertain.

With coaches instilling confidence, rotations providing opportunities, and players displaying newfound aggression in set pieces, the stage is set for a season filled with thrilling football and, hopefully, even more goals to come. The league is alive with excitement, and the beautiful game is flourishing in Kenya.