AFC Leopards claw Ulinzi FC

By Francis Ontomwa and Gilbert Wandera

AFC Leopards finally found their winning ways, ending a five-game dry spell in a virtuoso display that silenced soldiers Ulinzi FC in a Kenya Premier League (KPL) match at Mumias Sports Complex.

In what appeared as an effort laboured to grant veteran tactician Chris Makokha a perfect send-off, substitute veteran midfielder Charles Okwemba capped Leopards’ efforts in a 87th minute goal that will be recorded as one of finest since the onset of the premiership.

The triumph was a reprieve for under siege Belgian Coach Luc Eymael, who registered his first league win since taking over business from coach Tom Olaba weeks ago.

Leopards’ out-and-out approach paid off, managing to give matching orders to the soldiers, who will also be credited for standing their ground throughout the clash.

The match commenced lazily and it took several minutes before it gathered meaningful momentum.

A moment of silence was observed before kick-off in memory of former Harambee Stars tactician Makokha, who was laid to rest yesterday at his home in Kakamega.

Leopards’ central pair of youthful Edward Seda and Patilla Omoto glimmered in initial moments, lighting up the stands of Mumias Complex with their crisp combination.

The duo’s effort set up the match’s first meaningful chance, positioning danger man Noah Wafula, but his volley from the right flank went above bar.

Uinzi answered the challenge through an effort from speedy Kevin Simiyu, who hit wide a glaring chance from the danger zone.

In Nairobi, Gor Mahia could not crack Nairobi City Stars after the two teams settled to a barren draw at City Stadium.

The match started intensely and two players Moses Odhiambo of Gor Mahia and Boniface Onyango of City Stars had to be carried off the pitch for treatment after a high ball aerial collision.

Despite playing in front of a sold-out crowd, City Stars were not intimidated as they maintained the form that has seen them post positive results against big teams.

As the teams settled down, City Stars were clearly the better side. Boniface Onyango had the first chance at goal after 15 minutes but his long shot did not trouble Jerim Onyango in the Gor Mahia goal.

Gor hit back 10 minutes later when a Moses Odhiambo pass went to Dan Ssereuknuma but the Ugandan shot was saved by Evans Majani in the City Stars goal.

Odhiambo and Sserunkuma were combining well as two minutes later it was the Ugandan who set up his team-mate, but he shot wide.

Odhiambo missed again three minutes later when he opted for power instead of precision after finding himself unmarked inside the City Stars danger zone.