Tusker's Ian Simiyu keen to replicate NSL scoring form in Premier League

Tusker FC forward Ian Simiyu says he is determined to carry his impressive goal-scoring form from last season’s National Super League (NSL) into the current Kenyan Premier League (KPL) campaign.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the winger—who turned down an offer from fellow NSL outfit Naivas FC to join Tusker—said he is determined to help the club win silverware this season.

“After opening my goal account for Tusker before the international break, you can expect more goals from me this season. I have a feeling it’s going to be a good season — one in which we will try to win silverware for the club,” he underscored.

The 22-year-old came off the bench to score his first goal for the Brewers, earning them a valuable point against Shabana FC at Moi International Sports Centre [MISC] Kasarani.

“I have been working on my finishing and decision-making and it has started paying-off. I will continue to improve on these areas because I want to be hungrier and help the team,” he stated.

Simiyu has featured in all the six matches Tusker have played this season, including an 80th-minute appearance in a 2–1 victory over beleaguered Kariobangi Sharks on Wednesday in Murang’a.

Tusker have been blowing hot and cold this season, having won two matches, lost two, and drawn the other two. The Ruaraka brewers have struggled to find the scoring mojo after the departure of Harambee Stars goal-poacher Ryan Ogam, who now features Wolfsberger AC in the Austrian Bundesliga.

The former champions will travel to Bukhungu Stadium this Saturday to face league leaders Kakamega Homeboyz, before heading to Thika to battle Bidco United, then hosting defending champions Kenya Police — fixtures in which Simiyu says he hopes to help the team if given the opportunity.

“You know, when you’re up there [playing for Tusker], the pressure is higher — but I’m ready to take it head-on and do my very best to prove to the coaches that I belong here by giving my all to the team every day. So expect more goals and assists from me,” he expressed with optimism.

Tusker are fifth on the log with eight points, five adrift of leaders Kakamega Homeboyz.