Sofapaka clip Naivas FC to keep Premier League status

Sofapaka FC have retained their slot in the FKF Premier league after edging Naivas FC 1-0 in the second leg of the FKF Promotion Playoffs held on Sunday at the Dandora Stadium.

Andre Kalama scored the all important goal, the victory solidifying their aggregate win of 2-0 following their win of a similar margin in the first leg.

The 2009 Premier League champions had to fight for their lives through the playoffs after finishing 16th in the just concluded season, while Naivas came close to promotion after finishing third in the National Super League (NSL) behind winners Mara Sugar and Mathare United.

Sofapaka coach Ezekiel Akwana said he was confident of survival.

"The boys did it right, I was not under any pressure in this game, we knew we were coming for a draw. We are going to plan well for the next season as from next week so that we can claim our long title in the Premier league."

Naivas head coach Collins Omondi acknowledged the need for improvement and pledged to rectify their shortcomings

"While in NSL we had many goals and It's painful that we were not able to score in this playoffs, we lost many Chances.  Our decision making was not good and We are going correct on our mistakes."

Sunday’s show at the Dandora Stadium began with both teams displaying aggressive play, with several near misses and blocked attempts in the early minutes.

Kalama showcased his prowess early on, setting up opportunities that much to the chagrin of the fans went unfinished.

Naivas FC, however, were determined to break the deadlock, with Brian Ouru making a dangerous run into Sofapaka's penalty area, narrowly missing despite unsettling all his markers.

The breakthrough finally came in the 43rd minute when Kalama found the net, finishing skillfully after being set up in the box.

 The match had heated moments, as Naivas FC protested claiming a penalty following a foul in their opponents' box which the referee ultimately dismissed, with the clock ticking fast towards fulltime.

 There was an enthusiastic celebration by Sofapaka fans at the final whistle, which confirmed their stay in the Premier League after their most scary threat in their time in the top.