FC Talanta edge Sofapaka to end four-match winless streak

FC Talanta forward Edwin Lavatsa celebrates scoring against Vihiga Bullets FC during their FKF Premier League match at Kasarani stadium Annex on October 23, 2021. FC Talanta won 2-0. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

FC Talanta on Wednesday stunned Sofapaka 2-1 in midweek FKF Premier League match staged at the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani Annex in Nairobi.

The win saw the newbies end their four-match winless streak as they moved ninth on 31 points.

Kevintom Machika came off the bench to score the winning goal in the 89th minute and hand coach Ken Kenyatta a vital win.

Striker Joe Waithira had given Sofapaka the lead in the 16th minute after being set up by Titus Achesa.

Mohamed Sedi restored parity for FC Talanta after controlling the ball and easing past two Sofapaka defenders before shooting past custodian Kevin Omondi at the half hour mark for a 1-1 draw at half time.

Heading to the game, both teams were winless in their last four matches and were keen on returning to winning ways.

Talanta in particular had lost three of their last four and Ken Kenya's side was desperate for a win.

Defeat for the 2009 champions leaves them 13th on 27 points.

At the same time, Kariobangi Sharks played out a 1-1 draw against Bidco United at Thika Sub County Stadium.

Julius Masaba gave Kariobangi Sharks the lead in the 61st minute before Bidco United levelled matters in the 67th minute through Lameck Oloo.