By KPC Sports Reporter
Shabana FC bounced back to winning ways in style, edging out Murang’a Seals 1-0 in a pulsating SportPesa League derby at Gusii Stadium on Sunday evening.
Defender Wycliffe Omondi, popularly known as Awiko, proved the difference-maker, rising to the occasion with a crucial first-half strike that sent the home fans into wild celebration.
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The contest lived up to its “SportPesa Derby” billing, with both sides trading chances in an evenly matched encounter.
Midfielder Keith Imbali came agonizingly close for Shabana, rattling the upright, while goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng delivered a standout performance, producing key saves to keep league top scorer Joe Waithira at bay.
The victory snapped Shabana’s two-game winless streak and marked a dream start for interim coach Andrew Ongwae, who secured his first win in charge of Tore Bobe before a passionate home crowd.
“It feels good to return to winning ways. Our focus now is to stabilize the team and build on this momentum,” said Ongwae, who stepped in following the departure of Peter Okidi two weeks ago.
Murang’a Seals coach Osborne Monday was left to rue missed opportunities, admitting his side failed to capitalize on their chances.
“Shabana took theirs and scored. We had ours but didn’t utilize them,” he said, shifting focus to their upcoming clash against AFC Leopards.
Both coaches lauded the fans for their electric support, acknowledging their role in energizing the match atmosphere.
Monday noted: “Football without fans is nothing. I’m particularly impressed by travelling fans.”
However, they raised concerns over the poor condition of Gusii Stadium, noting it hampered the flow and quality of play.
