NSL: Four-star Naivas humble Msa Stars at home

Robert Karisa grabbed a brace as visitors Naivas FC thrashed Mombasa Stars 4-1 in a National Super League Sunday (NSL) encounter played at the Serani Sports ground, Mombasa.

Newton Ochieng and Markvivan Kesa scored one each to ensure Naivas’ win, while Gabriel Michael gave Mombasa Stars their consolation.

It was a humbling moment for Stars, leaving Head Coach Hussein ‘Madaga’ Mohammed faulting bad preparations as the cause of the heavy loss.

"We started the match well we lost three clear chances which would have made all the difference. I can only congratulate Naivas, they prepared well for match and that’s how they got maximum points," said Madaga.

His opposite number Elvis Ayani was happy man, saying they were the better side and deserved the win.

"We played well despite the harsh weather, so we had to push harder to get the win. Mombasa Stars are a strong side and playing at home, we knew we had to give our best from the start,” Ayani averred.

Mombasa Stars started the match quite impressively, with Mwema Mwanzah coming close in the 16th minute after firing a low shot inside the 18-yard box that went inches off the side post.

Three minutes to the break, Naivas FC goalkeeper Elix Otieno saved a one-on-one chance with Said Abdulrahman after he was set up by striker Rodgers Okumu.

Ochieng then gave Naivas the opener in the 45th, with a 30-yard shot past Stars’ goalkeeper Iddi Rashid.

With Stars appearing to have switched their minds to the break, Naivas FC doubled their lead through Karisa, who connected Ochieng’s free-kick with a powerful header.

Just 10 minutes into the second half, Karisa scored his second for the match to extend Naivas’ lead, exhibiting complete dominance over their hosts.

Stars got their consolation 10 minutes to the end of the match after Michael connected Rodgers Okuse's split pass.

Determined Naivas were not yet done,with Kesa connecting Rashid Moyo’s cross into the net.