Masonic hails Elim White’s spirit as Odiyo rues missed promotion chance

Elim White clinched the final promotion slot with a 2-0 victory over Gor Mahia Queens in a high-stakes playoff at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru on Sunday.

The result saw Elim White join Mathare Women and Shabana Starlets in next season’s top flight after the two sides earned automatic promotion by finishing top of their respective FKF Women’s National Super League zones.

Speaking after the victory, Masonic reflected on the club’s journey and praised his players for navigating a demanding campaign.

“I first want to thank God for this milestone. We’ve come from far. We’ve had a long season with many challenges here and there, but finally we’ve done well to join the Premier League,” said Masonic.

The coach singled out his experienced players for helping guide the younger members of the squad during the promotion push.

“If you look at Amutata, he has played a lot and travelled a lot. His experience showed, especially on the second goal. The calmness he displayed came from that experience, and it has helped us a lot,” he said.

He also praised Monicah Kaitot for her leadership within the team.

“If you look at Monicah Kaitot, her experience has helped the younger girls. That guidance and leadership have played a big role in helping us win,” he added.

Gor Mahia Queens coach Tony Odiyo admitted his team was left hurting after falling short in the decisive playoff.

For Gor Mahia Queens, the defeat ended hopes of a return to the top tier despite an impressive recovery during the second half of the season.

Odiyo noted that his side had struggled early in the campaign before mounting a strong promotion challenge.

“We started the league very badly. In the first leg we were around eighth place, but in the second leg the girls really improved. With support from the office and Eliud, everyone worked hard to help us get here,” said Odiyo.

The coach admitted the result was difficult to take but insisted his side would use the setback as motivation going forward.

“It’s painful, but we just need to work hard and come back stronger next season,” he said.

Elim White will now begin preparations for life in the FKF Women’s Premier League, while Gor Mahia Queens are left to regroup after narrowly missing out on promotion.