Kariobangi Sharks, Shabana FC share spoils in goalless draw at Kasarani

Kariobangi Sharks and Shabana FC battled to a goalless draw at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in a tense SportPesa Premier League encounter that left both sides frustrated after failing to score.

Both teams went into the clash looking to bounce back from identical 2-1 defeats in their previous matches, but despite flashes of brilliance and several goal-scoring opportunities, the contest ended without a breakthrough.

Shabana FC started well, dictating play in the early stages as Keith Imbali and Omuri combined well in attack. Imbali’s clever pass almost put Omuri through on goal inside the opening minutes, but the Sharks’ defence cleared the danger.

Moments later, Victor Ngume’s effort for Sharks was blocked for a corner before Markvivan Kesa failed to capitalise on a rebound from the Shabana goalkeeper.

The tempo of the match remained high as both teams pushed forward in search of an opener. Shabana’s Bronson and Imbali kept testing Sharks’ defensive line, forcing goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa into several decisive saves.

At the other end, Sharks’ Steve Mbulere and Andreas Odhiambo tried to break the deadlock with long-range attempts, but Shabana custodian Stephen remained alert to deny them. The first half ended with neither side able to convert their chances.

After the break, Shabana looked more determined. Omuri was a constant threat, testing Wekesa with a stinging shot in the 48th minute. However, despite Shabana’s attacking intent, their finishing once again let them down.

The match grew physical as Sharks’ Andreas Odhiambo went into the referee’s book with a yellow card, and coach William Muluya introduced Razel Omondi and Faiz Opande to inject more pace and creativity in attack. The substitutes added energy, linking well with Zablon Kutela, who came close to scoring in the 82nd minute but dragged his effort wide.

As time ticked away, Shabana pushed men forward in search of a late winner. Omuri orchestrated another dangerous move, setting up Austine Odongo, but the forward’s poor positioning saw the chance go begging.

In the closing moments, Sharks’ goalkeeper Wekesa pulled off a brilliant save to keep out a powerful effort from Shabana, ensuring his side left Kasarani with a valuable point.

The draw leaves both teams searching for consistency in a season that has seen them struggle to find form. Sharks will take positives from the clean sheet, while Shabana will feel hard done by after creating the better chances but failing to make them count.

At Awendo Green Stadium, Mara Sugar and Bandari also shared the spoils in another goalless draw, each side displaying strong defensive organisation but lacking cutting edge in the final third.

Over at Dandora Stadium, Sofapaka FC produced a commanding performance to dispatch Nairobi United 3-0, with goals from Joseph Kuloba, Bramuel Simiyu, and Japheth Mzungu guiding Batoto ba Mungu to their second league victory of the season, while the newly promoted Naibois slumped to their second straight defeat.

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• Shabana FC share spoils in goalless draw at Kasarani