Mathare United go top again after slim win

Mathare United's Cliff Nyakeya and John Mwangi in a past league match. [Oliver Ananda/www.sportpicha.com]

Three penalties marked yesterday’s 3-2 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) win for Mathare United against Nakumatt at Ruaraka grounds.

The win pushed the Slum Boys to the top of the log with 20 points, one more than Gor Mahia in second.

Cliff Nyakeya netted the opener for Mathare in the first minute after he tapped Martin Ongori’s cross, beating Franklin Mwendwa  in goal for Nakumatt .

It was Nyakeya’s fifth goal this season and raised his status as a consistent goal scorer.

The early goal did not seem to discourage Nakumatt, who have been struggling financially, and they fought hard for an equaliser. Donald Mosoti pulled level in the 10th minute from the spot.

Centre referee Caroline Wanjala pointed awarded the penalty after Francis Omondi fouled Boniface Mukhekhe in the box. Mosoti easily beat Robert Mboya to level matters.

With both sides at 1-1, the match was an evenly balanced affair at halftime. Mathare United came back strongly after resumption and went ahead after just two minutes.

This time, Mathare also benefited from a penalty after George ‘Wise’ Owino was fouled in the Nakumatt box and Francis Omondi stepped up to convert the effort.

In Nakuru, visiting Vihiga United defeated Ulinzi Stars 1-0. Chris Masinza scored the all-important goal as Vihiga got their first league win.