Leopards claw Bidco United to break jinx

AFC Leopards finally triumphed over Bidco United for the first time in three years with a 1-0 win at Thika Stadium courtesy of an 80th-minute goal from substitute Sydney Lokale.

The highly anticipated match began with both teams showing intent, but Bidco had the first clear chance of the game when Erick Michubu missed a free header in the 35th minute.

The hosts continued to press, captain Bodo tried a long-range effort that was comfortably saved by AFC’s goalkeeper.

Leopards responded with two quick attacks, but the Bidco shot stopper kept the game level with sharp saves as both sides went into the break with a goalless first half.

 Leopards’ Gitego missed a glorious opportunity when he failed to convert a free header just minutes into the second half.

Bidco United almost broke the deadlock in the 48th minute when a surging attack ended with the ball bouncing off-target.

The host missed chances gave AFC hope, and they grew confidence as the game rolled.

Substitute, Lokale, who had replaced a tired Victor Otieno in the 63rd minute, made the difference in the 80th minute.

A well-orchestrated counter-attack saw Ronald Sichenje deliver a pinpoint pass, which Lokale coolly slotted home to send the visiting fans into frenzy.

After the match, Bidco United's head coach Anthony Akhulia expressed his displeasure with the officiating, claiming that the referees favored AFC Leopards.

"You cannot just award free kicks all the time, awarding corners that are not even supposed to be corners. These are things we see in lower divisions, not in the Premier League," Akhulia remarked in frustration.

On the other hand, AFC Leopards’ hero, Lokale, reflected on the importance of the win: "It means a lot. We have to keep winning, and of course, we have to improve on our finishing. We have to score more goals," Lokale said, adding that the result would boost the team's morale as they chase the league title.