Ruiru Hotstars, a Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Division One side, have terminated the services of head coach Pascal Ochieng and assistant coach Anthony Gicho following a string of poor performances.
The decision comes as the club faces mounting pressure to salvage their season and avoid relegation.
In a late-night statement on Monday, Ruiru Hotstars confirmed the departure of Ochieng, a former Harambee Stars and Simba SC defender, signaling a period of transition and performance review.
Once considered strong contenders for promotion to the National Super League (NSL), Ruiru Hotstars have endured a dismal start to the season. After eight matches, the team has managed just one win, three draws, and four losses, leaving them 13th in the 16-team league.
Their solitary victory came last month against Dandora Youth, a result that briefly lifted spirits but failed to halt their downward trajectory. The latest setback—a 2-0 defeat to Spitfire FC—proved to be the breaking point for the management.
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Ruiru Hotstars expressed gratitude for the outgoing coaches’ dedication while emphasizing the need for change to improve results.
“Team management has decided to relieve head coach Pascal Ochieng and assistant coach Anthony Gicho of their duties while we review the team’s overall performance. We deeply appreciate their hard work and remain grateful for their commitment,” read the statement.
To maintain continuity, the club announced plans to establish an interim coaching unit to guide the team while the search for a permanent replacement begins.
A Season of Struggles
Ruiru Hotstars have struggled across the board this season:
- Recent Results:
- 2-0 loss to Spitfire FC.
- Goalless draw with Marafiki FC.
- 2-1 loss to Bumbani Stars.
- 2-2 stalemate against Strathmore University.
These results extended their winless streak to four matches, putting them just two points above the relegation zone.
- League Standings:
Hotstars sit 13th with six points, a far cry from their promotion ambitions.
Ruiru Hotstars has parted ways with their head coach,Pascal Ochieng,and Assistant Coach,Antony Gicho
This comes barely a day after they were defeated 2-0 by Spitfire FC on Saturday at the FKF Div One
Ruiru-based are in the 13th place winning one match out of 8 matches played. pic.twitter.com/M1b0dMG29l
— Muhammed Hussein (@Ndichumuhammedh) November 18, 2024
Ochieng was appointed at the beginning of the current campaign, replacing Shem Omwambia. His assistant, Anthony Gicho, had been with Ruiru Hotstars longer, serving under previous head coach Suleiman Ngotho before briefly taking charge prior to Ochieng’s arrival.
The high turnover of coaching staff has raised concerns among fans and pundits, with many calling for a more stable approach to team management.
Ruiru Hotstars now face the challenge of appointing a new head coach capable of reversing their fortunes and reigniting their promotion ambitions. With the team hovering near the relegation zone, every decision from this point forward will be critical.
Key Priorities for the New Coach:
- Improve Results: Immediate focus on securing points to climb up the table.
- Stabilize the Squad: Build team cohesion and confidence after a turbulent period.
- Long-Term Vision: Develop a sustainable strategy for promotion to the NSL.
Fans and Management Stay Hopeful
Despite the poor run of form, Ruiru Hotstars remains optimistic about turning things around. The statement from the management also acknowledged the loyalty of their fans:
“We thank our loyal fans for their continued support and understanding during this transition. Together, we are confident that better days lie ahead.”
Challenges Ahead
Hotstars’ next fixtures will be crucial in determining their fate this season. Results from other matches, such as the Kibra United vs. Kibera Soccer derby, will also play a role in shaping the relegation battle.
The management must balance immediate performance improvements with long-term goals to ensure the club remains competitive in the FKF Division One.
