Bandari FC end seven-match winless run with narrow victory over Tusker

The decisive goal came from former Tusker winger Erick Balecho, helping Bandari end a frustrating seven-match winless streak in the league.

The opening 30 minutes saw both sides battle for control in midfield, with neither team creating any clear-cut chances.

Bandari finally broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when Balecho punished his former club with a stunning curling free-kick from 20 yards out that beat Tusker goalkeeper Dzila Pavelh.

Three minutes later, Amza Mobarak came close to doubling the lead, but his quick close-range effort was comfortably saved by Pavelh.

Tusker’s attacking line, led by Eric Kapaito, pushed for an equaliser before halftime but failed to break through Bandari’s defence.

The visitors returned strongly after the break, and in the 54th minute Fabian Bathez unleashed a powerful 40-yard strike, only for Bandari goalkeeper Ngeleka to make a calm save.

Balecho thought he had grabbed his second goal of the afternoon in the 75th minute, but the referee ruled it out after flagging Brian Odera for a foul in the build-up.

Tusker continued to pile pressure on the hosts with numerous attacks and an overloaded frontline, but they could not find the equaliser in Mombasa.

Speaking after the match, Bandari assistant coach Razak Siwa praised his players for their determination.

“We prayed and played hard for this win, and I am happy we got it. We hadn't gotten a win in many matches, and I am sure this victory will boost our morale as we head to our final league match in Nairobi,” Siwa said.

On the other hand, Tusker head coach Julien Mette expressed disappointment with the result.

“It was a tight game with few chances to score. They only got a chance from a direct free-kick, but for sure the pitch is not good enough to allow a good display.”