Posta Rangers Goalkeeper Kevin Opiyo and head coach Stanley Okumbi have been named the player and coach of the month for March 2021 respectively by the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) in conjunction with the Football Kenya Federation(FKF)
25-year-old Opiyo kept three clean sheets during the period in matches against Gor Mahia, Kariobangi Sharks and Mathare United. He beat his Zoo Kericho defender Alex Onchwari and Wilson Fonseca of Gor Mahia to the gong.
Former Harambee Stars coach Stanley Okumbi who was handling his fourth match at the club after taking over from Sammy Omollo ‘Pamzo’, steered the mailmen to earning seven points out of a possible nine in the month.
The Rangers began the month by earning a barren draw against Kariobangi Sharks before beating the league defending champions Gor Mahia 1-0 at the Kasarani Annex. They would go ahead to beat Mathare United 2-0 in their next fixture. Gor Mahia coach Vaz Pinto and Kakamega Homeboyz’ Nicholas Muyoti were the other contenders for the coach of the month award.
Opiyo, a former APS Bomet keeper earned his debut under Okumbi and he did not disappoint. He has attributed his achievement owing to hard work, teamwork, sacrifice, and dedication.
“I’m happy for this gallant trophy. I attribute my achievement owing to hard work, sacrifice, teamwork, and above all God’s guidance. Our coach (Stanley Okumbi) also played a great role since he gave me the chance to showcase my talent. We look forward to the resumption of the Premier League,” said Opiyo.
He is the third keeper to win the individual player of the month award after Burundian Justin Ndikumana(Bandari) in March 2019 and Gabriel Andika(Western Stima) in 2015.
Both Okumbi and Opiyo walked home with a cash reward of Ksh 50,000 and personalized trophies.