AFC close gap as Sofapaka suffer setback

By Kenan Miruka

AFC Leopards continued their impressive run in the Premier League by beating hosts Sony Sugar FC 1-0 in an entertaining encounter at Gusii Stadium.

Bernard Mang’oli scored the lone goal tapping in a fine cut back from the impressive Paul Were in the 33rd minute.

The win takes Leopards into second position in the Premier League.

‘Ingwe’ buoyed by the vibrant visiting supporters comfortably controlled proceedings in the match aided by their resolute defense marshaled by Eric Masika and Rajab Idrissa. 

Sony Sugar’s Eric Agwanda’s trademark long range throw in the 40th minute eluded everybody flying past the upright.

AFC coach Jan Koops was elated with his team picking three points and attributed the win to the contribution of new signings.

“I am happy with the win especially now that Sofapaka lost two points. Our new signings especially midfielder Were has made the striker’s work easy with his contribution. Were worked had on the right flank and showed he can deliver a killer pass helping Mang’oli get an easy goal, but the team was strong especially in the defence,” said Koops.

On his part, Sony tactician Zico was happy with his team’s performance lamenting that lack of concentration had proved costly.

“The game was good and apart from the goal, Leopards created minimal chances. We failed to convert our chances and in football, you cannot do this. I can’t blame our new players because Kiplagat came in and missed a few chances so going forward, we can only improve,” said Zico.

In Chemelil, Fred Onyango scored in the 87th minthat to ensure Tusker got a point away in the game that ended 1-1.

The home side scored the first goal through Jared Obwoge in the 22nd minute, but Tusker were not giving up.

Oserian won the flower derby after edging out Karuturi 1-0 in Naivasha.

Ugandan import Edmond Murai sped down the right wing, looked up to find Karuturi keeper Noah Ayuko slightly off his mark.

He sent a shot to the top right corner that went in after a deflection from Ayuko.

On Friday Muhoroni Youth pulled a surprise 2-2 result against Sofapaka Kenyan Premier League on Friday night, but it was veteran striker John Barasa who grabbed the headlines with a brace that pushed his tally to 14.