Zoo Kericho Midfielder Michael Madoya is the 2017 KPL MVP. [Photo/ nation.co.ke]
Zoo Kericho Midfielder Michael Madoya had a night never to forget after he dominated the 2017 Kenya Premier League (KPL) best Players’ awards ceremony held on Friday night in Nairobi.
Madoya scooped four awards: Most Valuable Player (MVP), best midfielder, best new player and fair play player.
In the MVP Category, he defeated Gor Mahia's Meddie Kagere, Posta Ranger’s Patrick Matasi, Lawrence Juma of Gor Mahia (formerly Nzoia Sugar FC) and 2017 KPL top scorer Masoud Juma. Juma has since joined South Africa’s Cape Town City FC from Kariobangi Sharks.
"It wasn't easy. It has been a tough journey. At some point, we struggled with court cases and we were even thrown out of the league. I thank God for everything,” the player said.
Previous KPL MVP winner are: 2016: Kenneth Muguna (Western Stima), 2015: Michael Olunga (Gor Mahia), 2014: Anthony Ndolo (Sofapaka), 2013: Jacob Keli (KCB), 2012: Dan Sserenkuma (Gor Mahia), 2011: Kevin Kimani (Mathare United), 2010: George Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), 2009: John Baraza (Sofapaka) and 2008: Francis Ouma (Mathare United).
Sofaaka scooped the fair play team of the season, Mathare United’s George ‘Wise’ Owino won the best defender accolade, Posta Rangers and Harambee Stars keeper Patrick Matasi retained the best goal keeper award, while Kariobangi Sharks coach William Muluya was named the best coach.
Gor Mahia’s Jolawi Obondo won the Team Manager's award while Badir Yasin was named the Centre Referee of the Year.
Masoud Juma won the top scorer gong after scoring 17 goals in the league last season.