Mombasa Stars edge Muhoroni Youth to end NSL blip

The victory saw the Stars rise to 16th place in the second-tier league standings with 16 points, two above the relegation zone, while Muhoroni Youth are rooted to the foot of the table on 11 points.

The visitors took the lead early in the sixth minute, with Benjamin Omondi converting a penalty after Mombasa Stars defender Timothy Omondi handled the ball inside the box.

Stars came close to equalizing in the 20th minute when striker Emmanuel Nyamawi’s shot was saved by Muhoroni Youth goalkeeper Collins Abungu.

Their efforts finally paid off moments before halftime when Rodgers Okuse slotted in the equalizer in the 40th minute, finishing off a low pass from Abdulrehman Said to make it 1-1 at the break.

Lucky Kaingu then gave Mombasa Stars the lead in the 55th minute after he blasted an 18-yard shot past Abungu, following a simple assist from Nyamawi.

The Mombasa Stars defence, led by Eddy Oloo, veteran Kevin Washe, Hawkins Ademba, and Timothy Omondi, successfully held off Muhoroni Youth's attacks for the remainder of the match.

The visitors failed to register any shots on target in the second half, as they struggled to break down the home team’s defence.

In a post-match interview, Mombasa Stars head coach Mohammed Hussein expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance.

"It was a must-win. We started well but conceded a penalty. I’m happy that we bounced back and dominated the match. My boys showed great character, and they were all focused on getting the win. Congratulations to them for giving their best," he said.