Kenyan Premier League champions, Tusker, played out a hard-fought one-all draw against Ulinzi Stars in a pre-season friendly match at Ruaraka grounds on Thursday.

New signing Eric Mata — acquired from Kariobangi Sharks — fired the brewers into the lead, before Masuta Masita's strike rescued the soldiers from defeat.

The two teams used the encounter to gauge their strength ahead of the 2022/23 Kenyan Premier League season which kicks off on September 10.

Tusker, who will be eyeing a third consecutive title in the new season, have played two friendly matches thus far, beating Sofapaka 2-1 and Division One side Bongonaya 3-0.

Ulinzi Stars face AFC Leopards at Nyayo in their next build-up match on Sunday. - Tony Mballa, The Star