• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 10 days ago

Aroko and Okidi bask in glory of winning Sportpesa February league awards

Kariobangi Sharks youngster Humphrey Aroko and coach Peter Okidi are the latest winners of the SportPesa League monthly awards after outstanding performances in February.

Aroko, who is only 18 years old, was named Player of the Month after an impressive run that helped Kariobangi Sharks remain unbeaten during the month.

The young forward beat strong competition from Gor Mahia’s Enock Morrison, Murang’a SEAL captain Joseph Waithira, and Shabana goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng’ to win the award.

The Kenya Under-20 international played a key role in all four goals scored by Sharks in February. He scored against KCB, provided an assist in the Slum Derby against Mathare United, netted the winning goal against Ulinzi Stars, and added another assist in the win over APS Bomet.

His overall contribution has now pushed his season tally into double figures.

Despite winning the award, Aroko says his main focus is to help his team improve their position in the league standings.

“We are not yet where we want to be. I will be happier when we move higher up the table because that is what matters most,” he said.

In the coaching category, former Shabana head coach Peter Okidi was named Coach of the Month. He guided Shabana to four straight wins in February, keeping clean sheets in all matches. His performance gave him the edge over Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor and other contenders.

Okidi has since left Shabana following a difficult start to March, but he expressed gratitude for the award and praised his former team.

“I am very grateful for this recognition. It reflects the hard work we put in as a team,” said Okidi.

He added that he remains a supporter of the club and wished them well for the rest of the season.

The monthly awards, sponsored by SportPesa, recognise top performers in the league. Aroko received Sh50,000 while Okidi took home Sh75,000, both alongside trophies.

This marks Okidi’s second Coach of the Month award this season, highlighting his strong impact during his time at Shabana.