Ambani hails Leopards players after derby victory over Homeboyz

The coach descried their performance as a timely response to the team's early-season struggles.

Ambani was particularly pleased with the discipline, tactical execution and improved attacking threat displayed by his charges, who finally found their scoring touch after a difficult start to the Football Kenya Federation Premier League campaign.

Ingwe had managed just one victory and three goalless draws in their opening four matches, leaving them under pressure to deliver a convincing performance.

However, goals from Lwangu and James Kinyanjui ensured they returned to winning ways in style, while also registering their first home victory of the season.

Speaking after the match, Ambani singled out the contributions of his players, particularly the tactical adjustments that helped his side gain control of the contest.

“It was great because when you look at how Kayci Odhiambo came to marshal the midfield and have Lwangu man the defence, we knew we had more threat. Lwangu is very dangerous at set pieces, so when the chance came he was able to convert. This enabled us to get three points,” Ambani stated.

The Leopards tactician also welcomed the improved attacking display, with his team showing greater urgency and purpose in the final third compared to their previous outings.

Ingwe took the lead through Lwangu, who rose highest to head home James Kinyanjui's corner, before Kinyanjui doubled the advantage in the second half after being picked out by Adama Kanteh's delivery from the left.

The performance was particularly encouraging for Ambani, considering the pressure that had mounted on the team following their inability to convert chances in the opening rounds.

The coach's praise also extended to Lwangu, who marked his first start of the season with a goal and an assured defensive performance.

The defender revealed that he had remained patient while waiting for an opportunity to impress, and was delighted to have played a key role in an important derby victory.

“I am feeling great. In the start, we managed to get one win and four draws, which brought some pressure to us. When I was seated on the bench, I always said to myself that when my time comes, I will show the coach what I can do. This game provided me with that chance because I was able to score,” Lwangu explained.

The victory lifted Leopards to nine points and third place in the standings, providing a much-needed boost to their campaign as they seek to establish consistency in the title race.

For Ambani, the challenge now will be ensuring his players build on the performance against Homeboyz rather than allowing the derby triumph to become an isolated result.

With their attacking confidence restored and three valuable points secured, Ingwe will hope to carry the same intensity and tactical discipline into their next league assignment.