Paul Put’s reign as Kenya’s Harambee Stars manager began on a high Saturday with a 2-0 win over 10-man Rwanda in the CECAFA Senior Challenge group A match at Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega.
Put, 61, signed a two-year deal with the East Africans late last month with a clear mandate to return them back to the glory days.
Kenyan Premier League golden boot winner Masoud Juma of Kariobangi Sharks opened the scoring from the spot in the 25th minute – lighting up the newly refurbished facility that was full to capacity.
Stars imposed their superiority further dominating play and creating better chances in the half.
AFC Leopards prodigy doubled the lead in the 37th minute – striking home a screamer from 35 meters after being set up by fellow teammate Whyvonne Isuza.
The game settled for a 2-0 lead at the breather. The second stanza was no different as the home side continued to push for more goals despite a heavy downpour.
Rwanda, who were largely physical suffered a big blow in the 52nd as Kayumba Soter was sent to early showers for a second bookable offense.
The CHAN 2018 qualifiers still managed to go forward with purpose but could not break a resolute Kenyan defense marshaled by Gor Mahia skipper Musa Mohammed and Jockins Atudo of Posta Rangers.
Kenya climb to top of the group with three points – pending the second match of the group pitting guests Libya against Tanzania in Machakos later today.
Stars will be back in action Tuesday in Machakos against Zanzibar with the coach Antoine Hey’s side taking on Libya at the same venue.
