AFC Leopards once again fail to beat Ulinzi Stars in Premier League showdown

Ulinzi Stars’ Oliver Ruto (right) and Leopards Gilbert Fiamenyo during a KPL match at Kenyatta Stadium yesterday. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

AFC Leopards went to the top of the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) after fighting to a barren draw against Ulinzi Stars at Machakos Stadium yesterday.

Coming into the match, Ulinzi Stars were clearly the favourites, having never lost to their opponents in the last six matches.

But they were facing a rejuvenated AFC Leopards side that was full of confidence after collecting maximum points in their last two matches.

The two sides took time to settle and it was not until the 10th minute that real action was witnessed.

And it came from AFC striker Marcelus Ingotsi who floated in a dangerous ball from the right flank.

The danger was, however, dealt with by James Saruni in goal for Ulinzi Stars.

Two minutes later, Saruni found himself having to deal with a Robinson Kamura well-taken free kick.

The Ulinzi Stars goalkeeper made a good save and started a fast break by throwing the ball to Evans Amuoka who, however, could not do much with it.

Then Kamura hit the Ulinzi wall with another free kick as Leopards took control of the proceedings.

Leopards came closest to scoring in the 35th minute when Ghanian striker Gilbert Fiamenyo beat an offside trap and Saruni in goal onlyfor defender Godfrey Kokoyo to clear away the danger.

Leopards ended the first half on a high with Kamura’s free kick being blocked by Kokoyo for a fruitless corner.

Ulinzi rested Stephen Ocholla for Cliff Kasuti in the 50th minute, but they could not find a breakthrough.