Murang'a SEAL falters as Shabana close in on NSL title

Shabana attacking midfielder Isaac Otieno Otile fends off a Gusii FC defender in a Gusii derby played on 11th June 2023 at Gusii stadium. (Photo COURTESY)
National Super League (NSL) giants Shabana inched closer to
clinching the title after emphatically dispatching ninth-placed Mully
Children’s Family (MCF) 3-1 at Gusii Stadium on Wednesday, a feat that opened a five-point gap between them and bitter rivals Murang’a SEAL who settled for a 1-1 draw against Kibera Black Stars.
Buoyed by a fully packed Gusii Stadium, Shabana drew first
blood through Isaac Otieno’s neat strike in the 10th minute before MCF restored
parity in the 41st minute through John Ochieng’ to force a 1-1 score line into
the break.
The hosts, Shabana, came back revitalized after the break as
they searched for another goal.
Their efforts were rewarded through Mustafa Oduor’s
converted spot-kick in the 71st minute before super sub Nehemiah Onchiri’s
fierce string from inside the area made it 3-1 before stoppage time.
The latest Glamour Boys conquest propelled them to 70
points, four ahead of second-placed Murang’a SEAL.
Despite a slippery pitch, Shabana tactician Sammy Okoth
praised his charges for their impressive display.
“We played well despite the challenging playing surface. We
had to maintain our poise after our game was postponed yesterday, and I am glad
we have won impressively in front of our fans.”
He, however, urged his players to swiftly turn their focus
to Sunday’s potential title decider against Murang’a SEAL at St. Sebastian Park
in Murang’a.
“This is a delicate stage, and all we can do is focus ahead
of a tough match against Murang’a.”
His MCF counterpart, David Maina, rued a slippery playing
surface, making it hard for them to execute their game plan.
“Shabana are a good side, and they are on top of the log
because of their efforts.
“The slipper playing surface rattled our game plan, but I am
proud of our perseverance.
The Camp Toyoyo-based side will hope for a turnaround in their fortunes when they face Gusii on Sunday.
Shabana 3-1 MCF
Kibera Black Stars 1-1 Murang'a SEAL
Coastal Heroes 2-1 Kajiado
Mara Sugar 1-0 Vihiga United
Gusii FC 1-0 Darajani Gogo
Mwatate 2-0 Mombasa Elite
Naivas 0-0 SS Assad
-Additional reporting by Hillary Kennedy
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