Draws galore in the Kenya Premier League mid-week encounters

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Kariobangi Sharks held Kenyan Premier League champions Tusker to a barren draw in yesterday’s encounter at Ruaraka Grounds in what was marked with wasted chances.

Although goals were scored at Moi Stadium (Kisumu) and Kericho, the matches also recorded stalemates.

Zoo Kericho rallied from behind to hold Nzoia Sugar 2-2 as Western Stima drew 1-1 with Nakumatt.

Just like the first half at Ruaraka, both teams shared the possession and created a host of scoring opportunities but there was nothing to show after the final whistle.

The draw saw the brewers, who have a game in hand, go level on points (40) with sixth placed Posta Rangers, one point behind fifth ranked Sharks. 

“Comparing on how we played against Gor Mahia, I think today (Wednesday), the boys showed some character. We were able to create scoring chances, but the final touch let us down. I hope we will maintain the tempo and secure a top three finish,” Tusker coach George Nsimbe told Standard Sports.

Danson Kago had a chance in the 52nd minute but fluffed his shot after a solo run on the left wing before Sharks striking duo of Tayo Odongo and Masoud Juma’s shots went wide.

Tusker continued invading the visitors’ back line with Michael Khamati forcing a fine save from Sharks goalkeeper Jeff Oyemba on the hour mark before Collins Shivachi’s free kick went wide.

The brewers would have another chance but this time it was fullback Paul Kamau who came to Sharks rescue, making fantastic goal line clearance to stop Khamati’s attempt before Shivachi’s glancing header missed target by a whisker.

Khamati then miscued his effort after being released through by Jackson Macharia as both sides pushed for an opener.

In the 81st minute, Masoud made a brilliant run on the left flank only for him to be denied by the post before his free header missed target by inches.

Sharks keeper was forced to come off his line to parry away Eugene Asike’s free kick before Lloyd Wahome tapped wide with only the keeper to beat.

Sharks responded immediately, but Ebrimma Sanneh’s feeble shot was cleared by one of the opposing defenders.

In Kisumu, Boniface Akenga came off the bench to score a late equaliser and secure a point for Nakumatt against relegation-threatened Western Stima.