Shabana FC head coach Peter Okidi was all smiles after his players stunned AFC Leopards 2-1 at Gusii Stadium on Wednesday.
The victory was a significant achievement for Tore Bobe, who came into the match as underdogs but managed to secure a memorable win thanks to a palpable rise in form.
The match started brightly for Shabana FC, who created several chances early on but failed to convert.
However, they stayed composed while piling pressure on Leopards.
Okidi’s post-match interview was filled with praise and admiration for his players.
“This victory is a testament to the hard work and commitment of my players. They believed in themselves and their ability and their hard work paid off,” Okidi said.
“The win is worth celebrating because we exceeded expectations and silenced the doubters. This victory will undoubtedly boost our confidence as we continue our quest for a decent finish this season.”
The win left Shabana seventh with 12 points.
Leopards’ head coach Tomas Trucha rued missed opportunities.
“We need to have a more positive outlook if we expect to bag points from matches. To some extent, the rain-drenched pitch slowed down our momentum,” he said.
Brian Michira gave Shabana the lead with 35th and 39th-minute strikes but Boniface Munyendo pulled one back for Ingwe on the stroke of halftime.
Meanwhile, Talanta head coach Jackline Juma was ecstatic following a hard-fought 1-0 win over Ulinzi Stars at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.
The victory was a significant achievement for Juma and her coaching staff, as it marked their second win of the season.
Enock Machaka’s 36th-minute effort was all Talanta needed to propel themselves to 13th on the log with nine points.
They are now a spot behind Ulinzi who enjoy a superior goal difference.
After making history as KPL’s first female head coach, Juma described their victory as a testament to resilience and unwavering belief.
The weight of expectation and the pressure of proving herself had been a constant companion.
Her campaign started with a four-match winless streak. Nairobi City Stars put up a valiant fight to edge Mathare United 1-0 at Dandora Stadium while Bandari were 2-0 winners over Kariobangi Sharks.
Posta rangers whipped Bidco United 3-1, Tusker edged debutants Mara Sugar 2-1.
Champions Gor
Mahia returned to winning ways in
a 2-0 win over 10-man Kakamega
Homeboyz.
