By Rebecca Gichana

Naivasha, Kenya:  Women’s Premier League leaders Nyuki Starlets forced a 3-3 draw against hosts Oserian Ladies to remain at the top of the league standings.

The match that was played at the Oserian Stadium in Naivasha over the weekend saw Winfred Jecinta score a hat-trick for the home team.

Oserian, who were looking for their first win since they were promoted to the top-flight football, were the first to score through Jacinta only two minutes into the match.

However, the home team’s joy was short-lived after Lillian Manawa leveled for Starlets three minutes later.

Jecinta was on fire, scoring their second goal after ten minutes of play during the dramatic but balanced encounter in the tenth minute.

But Nyuki Starlets reorganised themselves, piled up more pressure and their efforts paid off when Reizah Musa equalised in the 23rd minute for a two-all score line.

Jecinta completed her hat-trick with a fine header after receiving a cross from Irene Oguta.

Jackline Ashitsa leveled for the visiting team in the dying minutes of the first half to ensure her team bagged a point.

Speaking to FeverPitch, Nyuki Starlets head coach Hargi Harton said they are on the right track and will intensify training for the next league matches.

“I am happy with the way the team is playing,” said the tactician.

Won two matches

He added, “We are on the right track since we have so far won two matches besides this draw. Since this is our first time in the league, I can say that the girls are determined to do their best. We will continue training hard for our next fixtures and hope that we will register good results as the league progresses.”

Oserian have played three matches out of which they have lost two and drawn once.

Oserian head coach Johnson Mukhwana blamed his defence and lack of concentration.

“The match was good but again the defensive lapses cost the team,” said the coach.

Mukhwana, who said they are on the right track, believes that they will post good results in this weekend’s matches.

“My girls are new to the league and holding a more experienced side like Nyuki Starlets is a big plus. All we need to do now is step up our preparations and make a few corrections on the team before we go for our next matches,” he added.