Struggling AFC Leopards drop points in Mumias

AFC Leopards got a big scare before salvaging a 1-1 draw against Nairobi City Stars in a tough Kenyan Premier League match at Mumias Sports Complex on Saturday.

City Stars dominated proceedings and were deservingly rewarded in the 53rd minute when Justus Basweti’s cross from the left wing was converted by Dennis Okoth following a defensive mix up in Ingwe’s rearguard.

Leopards, who took time to settle down, were lucky to escape imminent defeat by the resilient City Stars, when Jackson Saleh nodded home Paul Were’s 81st minute corner kick for the equaliser.

The visitors could have found the back of the net as early as the 7th minute when George Abege got past Eric Masika only for goalkeeper Martin Musalia to block his close range effort.

After a goalless first half, Leopards came back into the match a rejuvenated side as they laid siege in City Stars’ territory.

In the 58th minute, Jacob Keli’s goal bound shot was tipped over the crossbar by City Stars custodian Fredrick Majani.

Leopards stand-in coach Washington Muhanji and his opposite number Tim Bryett both made key changes in the second half in a bid to swing the tide in their favour.

Muhanji introduced Charles Okwemba for Ezekiel Seda, while Bryett brought in Joseph Kayiira for Basweti.

Muhanji regretted his strikers’ failure to convert the chances that came their way.

“Our blunt striking force cost us victory today. It’s an area we need to work on,” the former Kenya international goalkeeper said.

On his part, Bryett expressed satisfaction with his charges’ performance.

“We had so many shots on target. The strikers did a wonderful job but I still need more time to familiarize with the players.”

BANDARI SINK KCB

In Nairobi, Bandari claimed a crucial win when they floored KCB 2-1 in a thrilling match at City Stadium. Two quick first half goals from Kassim Mohammed in the seventh minute and Kepha Aswani three minutes later guaranteed the Coastal side victory. And although Peter Wainaina pulled one goal back in the 21st minute, the visitors held on for all three points.

In an earlier match at the same venue, KRA pipped fellow debutants Top Fry Nakuru 1-0 in a thrilling contest. The visitors started the match forcefully and could have gone ahead in the second minute through Anthony Ng’ang’a’s effort.

On the other end of the pitch, KRA’s attacks were fended off by a strong Top Fry defense that stood tall until the 63rd minute when substitute Joseph Emeka headed home in the match winner.

In Chemelil, hosts Chemelil Sugar and Mathare United played out a barren draw.