David Simiyu of KCB celebrates a goal during an FKF Premier League match against Gor Mahia FC at Kasarani stadium on Sunday, March 7, 2021. [Jonah Onyango, The Standard]

KCB on Wednesday went top of the Football Kenya Federation Premier League standings after narrowly defeating Bidco United 1-0 in the mid-week match played at the Thika Stadium.

Derrick Otanga’s penalty in the dying minutes of the opening half was enough to hand the bankers a much-needed win in the race for the title and CAF Champions League slot.

The win saw KCB leapfrog Tusker at the helm of the table with 39 points, a point above the breweries who lost 1-0 to Posta Rangers on Tuesday.

Coming into the match placed 11 in the standings, Bidco United needed a win to try and get into the bottom half table and they meant business from the word go after Stephen Waruru tempted KCB stopper Joseph Ochuka with a powerful shot.

In the 10th minute, Keke was at it again for Bidco but his effort went wide not troubling Ochuka in goal.

The bankers defense would be tested numerous times with attacks from Waruru, Keke, and David Orem but none could go past an energized Ochuka.

KCB real chance would come at the half hour mark from a free-kick but David Owino could only send his attempt wide over the cross bar.

Keke would be released by Waruru in the 36th minute but again he would miss to score.

After a silent half, KCB would take the lead against the run of play when they were awarded a penalty.

Otanga stepped up to send Edwin Ombwani the wrong way as KCB took a narrow 1-0 lead, a goal they would defend to win all maximum points.

KCB will now face Mathare United on Saturday.

Other FKF Premier League matches on Wednesday. [Photo: Courtesy]
By Ben Ahenda 4 hrs ago
Boxing
Andiego eyes Olympics slot after victory at Nelson Mandela Cup
Football
FKF-PL: Are fans back to the stadiums or it is false hopes?
By AFP 1 day ago
Football
Bellingham brings Real Madrid to brink of La Liga title with Clasico winner
By AFP 1 day ago
Football
It's Man United verses Man City in FA Cup final