FKF Premier League title battle to go down to the wire

KCB's Harun Thomas (left) and Henry Meja of Tusker in an FKF Premier League match at Ruaraka grounds. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

KCB and Tusker’s battle for the FKF Premier League title is set to go down to the wire after their closest rivals AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia failed to win their respective matches.

Despite KCB dropping two vital points in their push to challenge for the title, the bankers are still within reach of league leaders Tusker having played a game less than the brewers.

Wazito forced the bankers to a 1-1 draw, a result that saw KCB miss the chance to narrow the gap between them and Tusker.

The draw takes KCB’s points tally to 48, six behind Tusker, who beat AFC Leopards 2-0.

“I think we were winning it but we were unlucky. We did not play well but I am satisfied with the draw,” said KCB’s coach Zedekiah Otieno.

Seven matches are left to decide the 2021 champion and Tusker look set to stamp their authority in the race as they seek to end their five-year title drought.

KCB, on the other hand, have a one match advantage and will narrow the gap between them and Tusker to three points, if they win in the fixture.

AFC Leopards’ title ambitions hit a snag after losing to Tusker in what was a must-win fixture.

Leopards’ coach Patrick Aussems said they will work on their efficiency after playing well but losing against the league leaders.

“We lacked efficiency because we missed good opportunities but to be honest, I think people are proud of how AFC Leopards are playing. But we will keep working on the efficiency,” said Ingwe’s tactician. [Washington Onyango]

Ingwe are third with 43 points, 11 points behind leaders Tusker and five behind second-placed KCB.

Defending champions Gor Mahia’s frustrating campaign continued after they were forced to a 1-1 draw by Nairobi City Stars. The draw saw K’Ogalo drop to fifth with 40 points.

Kariobangi Sharks leapfrogged Gor after their commanding 4-0 win over Vihiga United where golden boot hopeful Eric Kapaito scored a brace.

The double saw Kapaito take his goals tally to 21, seven ahead of his closest challenger Elvis Rupia (AFC Leopards).

In the relegation battle, Mathare United (14 points) stare at the exit door after losing to Homeboyz in another fixture.

Also in danger of being relegated from the Premier League is Vihiga United, whose heavy loss to Sharks has condemned them to the second-last position with 16 points.