Tusker FC midfielder Dennis Oguta openly acknowledged the challenges he faced during his debut for the first team against Kariobangi Sharks in Machakos last weekend.
Despite the pressure, Oguta rose to the occasion, earning his place in the starting lineup due to Chris Erambo’s suspension and impressing with a goal in his first 90 minutes on the field.
Oguta self-doubt at Tusker
Reflecting on his debut, Oguta admitted to initial self-doubt but credited his teammates for their support and encouragement, which boosted his confidence.
“It was really tough honestly. At first, I doubted myself whether I could really make it. However, my teammates really encouraged me and told me that I have the ability to do well,” Oguta explained.
His successful first touch set the tone for his performance, culminating in a memorable goal.
However, Oguta expressed disappointment that the team didn’t secure a victory despite his personal achievement.
Nevertheless, Oguta sees his debut performance as a springboard for future success, vowing to build on his momentum and raise his performance level if given another opportunity.
“I went into the field with a bit of confidence and my first touch was good which really gave me the confidence. Scoring on my debut was a special feeling and the only dent to that day was that we didn’t win as a team,” the youngster stated.
Buoyed by his goal-scoring debut, he is determined to maintain consistency and aims to contribute at least five more goals in the remaining nine games of the season.
“I started and scored and that gives me a lot of confidence. It tells me that I can keep doing the same and that is my ambition. In the remaining nine games of the season, my hope is to score at least five goals,” Oguta said.
Kariobangi Sharks secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over title-contenders Tusker at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on April 6, 2024. Despite Tusker’s efforts to close the gap with Gor Mahia, they dropped crucial points in the match.
Oguta’s equalizer for Tusker
Early chances for Tusker, including Fortune Omotto’s opportunity, were squandered, while Sharks gradually found their rhythm. John Makwatta broke the deadlock for Sharks in the 20th minute. A substitution by Tusker saw James Kibande inject energy, assisting Dennis Oguta’s equalizer just before halftime.
Tusker started the second half strongly, but Makwatta scored his second for Sharks in the 57th minute. Deogratius Ojok leveled the score for Tusker in the 73rd minute, only for Julius Masaba to clinch victory for Sharks with a goal in the 80th minute.
