Zoo Kericho's win save two KPL teams from relegation

Hassan Abdallah (right) of Bandari FC vies for the ball with Isack Kipegon (left) of Zoo Kericho FC during a Sportpesa Kenya Premier League match played at the Mbaraki Sports Club, September 17, 2017. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

Zoo Kericho edged out Thika United 2-1 at home in Wednesday’s Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match to guarantee their place in the top flight next season.

The result also helped Nakumatt and Chemelil Sugar to survive reducing the relegation battle Thika United, Western Stima and to some extent Mathare United.

After yesterday’s win, Zoo Kericho move to 12th spot on 40 points while Chemelil Sugar and Nakumatt are placed in 13th and 14th spot on 39 points each.

Thika United and Western Stima have 35 points while Mathare United have 38 and need just a point in their last match against Posta Rangers to ensure survival. Mathare can only survive even if they lose to Rangers as they have a better goal aggregate than Stima and Thika who will need to win by atleast six goals to finish ahead of Mathare.

Western Stima will play Chemelil Sugar with Thika United hosting Bandari in the season ender matches on Saturday.

It is certainly great news for Zoo Kericho and Nakumatt who four weeks ago, were kicked out of the KPL after a High Court ruling dismissed their promotion. The two were only allowed back by the Court of Appeal which has stayed the lower court’s ruling until the matter is heard and determined.

The two were among four teams that were promoted into the KPL this season alongside Kariobangi Sharks and Nzoia Sugar.

In Wednesday’s match played at Kericho Green stadium, Zoo Kericho who were promoted to the top league this season raced to a 2-0 win at half time.

Zoo were ahead in the 15th minute when Nickolas Kipkurui opened the scoring when he tapped home from a Michael Madoya pass.

Madoya turned provider again in the 39th minute when he set up Dominic Ouma to score the second goal for the home-side. Thika United pulled one back in the 56th minute through Shami Kibwana who was served up well by Eugene Mukangula.

At Moi Stadium, Vihiga United kept their hopes of earning promotion to the KPL alive after edging out Palos 1-0.

Patrick Okullo scored the only goal of the match in the 64th minute through a controversial penalty. Palos players protested when center referee Caroline Wanjala awarded the visitors a penalty after Charles Okwemba appeared to have been fouled in the box.

Vihiga move to joint second on the log with 74 points and welcome leaders Ushuru in the last match on Saturday. Wazito and KCB also remain in contention to qualify to the top league next season.