Ochieng must perform for his place
Western Stima coach Francis Baraza believes that Willis Ochieng’s experience will be invaluable to the club in the coming season.
Stima have captured the widely travelled goalie on a one-year contract as they aim to give their back-line some stability.
As part of the deal, Ochieng will also serve as goalkeeping coach as they aim to blood young prospect Ben Roberts Mandela into a top custodian. Baraza has welcomed the arrival of the keeper and has nothing but praise for his exploits.
“We have a very experienced man in Willis at the club. He has played the game in all parts of the world and at some top clubs in the region,” he said.
“His expertise and experience is highly welcome at this club as we move to the next level. He will also help out with the younger goalkeepers as we also know that the future is not too far off. “I am happy with his arrival,” he said.
Baraza also says that he expects Ochieng to compete for a starting place just like the others.
“I have praised him but at the end of the day, the best man starts the games. Willis is a very experienced keeper but he is not guaranteed to start. What matters is how well he plays. We have other keepers who did well last season and can improve even more. If they perform they will play. What matters to me is performance,” he added.
Ochieng’s last playing post was at current Tanzanian champions Simba SC, though it was short-lived due to some off the pitch issues.
