In the modern game, set plays have become one of the most effective strategies to break down defenses. Based on data, in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) almost a staggering 50% of the goals scored in the last season came from set pieces as shown. This statistic highlights the growing importance of dead-ball situations such as corners, free kicks, and penalties, transforming them into a primary source of chance creation. 

Tusker FC is one team fine-tuning its approach to capitalize on these moments. They are incorporating some of the tactical nuances behind successful set plays and it has become essential to their game model. Tusker has scored 10 goals this season, and 6 are from set plays, representing 60% of their total goals.

Tusker’s Set Piece Tactics

The six goals include 3 from corners, 1 free kick, and two from long throws. The set play masterclass was displayed by Tusker over the weekend in their 3-1-win vs Talanta. The Ruaraka based side turned the tide in their favour using set plays after falling a goal behind.  A look at Thomas Teka's goal shows Tusker employs some of the most basic but effective routines on this corner.

Firstly, they have a blocker on the keeper. Erambo then makes a decoy near-post run, dragging his marker away and creating a gap where the ball will be delivered. Teka is unmarked and has a free run attacking the space vacated by Erambo. Teka plants a bullet header from Mike Oduor's perfect delivery to draw Tusker level. 

Despite Tusker's brilliance, there are a few things Talanta could have done to stop this goal from happening. Gabriel Andika's position could be higher and aggressive as Mike Oduor delivers an out swinger which negates the chance of the ball being on target directly from the corner kick. A slightly higher starting position enables him to claim the ball and save the day. 

Secondly, the markers and the blockers from Talanta were not tight and aggressive enough to deny Tusker players movement and free headers inside the penalty box. There are 5 white shirts not picking up anyone. 

Kaddu's Goals and Talanta’s Defensive Struggles

With momentum, Tusker struck again from another set piece, a freekick from the middle third. The keeper once again starts too deep and remains passive. He doesn't give himself a chance of claiming the ball. Talanta's Brian Maingi is also not tight and aggressive enough on Siwa and thus, loses him once the ball is played in behind. 

This then leads to Siwa winning the first flick-on and Kaddu arrives at the back post to tap home from point-blank range to put Tusker ahead in the 26^th minute.

Kaddu's next goal and Tusker's 3^rd goal came under almost similar circumstances. The goalkeeper is too deep again and can't come for the ball. Despite an imperfect delivery, Talanta's defenders struggled to cope with the situation, raising questions about their defensive capabilities.

Odhiambo Larry makes a poor clearance which falls to a teammate who again plays a miscued back pass towards his own goal and the ball falls in no man's land. Siwa's brilliant anticipation enabled him to track the ball and square it to Kaddu who had the goal wide open again from point-blank range.

Tusker FC's set-piece prowess proved decisive in a game where precision and preparation met opportunity. Scoring all three goals from dead-ball situations, they demonstrated why they are a force to be reckoned with in these crucial moments. 

As set pieces continue to define critical matches, Tusker FC’s performance is a clear reminder that mastery of these situations can be the difference between 0, 1, and 3 points. Dead ball situations are also definitive for the Brewers, given they don’t keep hold of the ball to much, meaning open play chances are diminished. The team has only dominated possession once this season, a match against struggling Sofapaka.

Hence, the strategic approach could help Tusker get an edge in their quest to challenge reigning champions Gor Mahia this season.