Bandari edge Mara Sugar, Posta beat Leopards

Bandari FC overcame a determined Kenyan Premier League newcomer Mara Sugar 1-0 at Mombasa Sports Grounds in Mombasa County on Sunday afternoon, as the 2024/25 season entered match day II.

Mara Sugar defender Drona Openda scored in his own net in the first half, after failing to clear a deflected shot by Shassir Nahimana.

At the Mombasa Sports Grounds, Bandari FC dominated the first 20 minutes of the match but it was visitors Mara Sugar who won two quick corner kicks, which they however could not convert.

The home side striking force led by Benjamin Nyamawi, Alvin Ngoto and William Wadri was on fire, forcing Mara midfield and defence line to sit back for the better part of the game. 

In the 34th minute, Mara Sugar defender  Openda deflected the ball to his own net after Nahimana Shassiri's hard shot kissed off the crossbar.

Mara sugar had their first shot on target in the 66th minute, when Reuben Okoth shot was calmly saved by Bryne Omondi.

A minute later Benjamin Nyamawi failed to score into an empty net after receiving a strong cross from dangerman David Sakwa.

Most of the second half the home team minus their captain Andrew Juma who was substituted after an injury was on the receiving end but compactly successful defended attacks from energised Mara Sugar.

At the end Bandari won for the first time at Mombasa Sports Club, after last season's uninspiring results at the venue, in which they registered four draws.

Mara Sugar head coach George Midenyo feels his boys had a chance of forcing at least a draw.

"Our opponents had an upper hand in the first half and capitalised on our mistake, but we came back stronger in the second half and we did our best but lack was not on our side. Had we converted our chances, we would have gotten something," the ex-Kenyan international said.

On his side, Bandari tactician Ken Odhiambo was glad to get the first win of the season, but said he still expects more.

"It was not what I expected, our speed was low and i believe if we up it abit the next opponent will be in trouble."

Bandari will next weekend entertain FKF-PL champions Gor Mahia at home, a match anticipated to be held at Ukunda Show Ground, Kwale County.