Nine-man Sofapaka hold APS Bomet as Tusker edge Mara Sugar to end losing run

A valiant nine-man Sofapaka side battled to a hard-earned 0–0 draw against APS Bomet at Dandora Stadium, while Tusker returned to winning ways with a narrow 1–0 victory over Mara Sugar at Awendo Green Stadium on Saturday.

Sofapaka displayed remarkable resilience as they held APS Bomet to a goalless draw despite finishing the match with nine men.

The point lifts Sofapaka to 11th on 12 points, ending their run of two straight defeats. APS Bomet, meanwhile, earned four points from their Nairobi double-header, edging closer to safety and finding themselves within a point of climbing out of the relegation zone.

The match began with both teams trading long balls, but Sofapaka soon took control of the midfield through crisp passing and quick movement. Joseph Kuloba and Iddris Shaib constantly pushed the team forward, forcing Bomet’s Philip Wasai and Francis Oduor to chase shadows.

Despite the dominance, Sofapaka lacked the cutting edge in the final third. APS Bomet nearly stole the lead in the 18th minute when Antony Naibei’s effort trickled narrowly wide. Moments later, Douglas Kibet Koech squandered another big chance after being picked out by Kuloba.

Sofapaka’s best opportunities fell to Daniel Ng’ang’a, who twice came close to breaking the deadlock. In the 30th minute, he fired toward an empty net after goalkeeper Bob Cetric miscued a clearance, only for Edward Masembe to brilliantly block the shot off the line. Eight minutes later.

The half ended with Sofapaka comfortably controlling possession but lacking the ruthless streak needed to punish APS Bomet’s mistakes.

Sofapaka’s night took a dramatic turn almost immediately after halftime. Midfielder Japheth Mzungu was shown a straight red card for throwing the ball at Bomet’s Chris Wilunda during a scuffle, forcing coach Ezekiel Akwana into early tactical reshuffling.

With the numerical advantage, APS Bomet grew into the game and began stretching Sofapaka’s midfield. Naibei nearly capitalised in the 62nd minute, but Shaibu produced a vital interception to keep the game level.

Both coaches turned to their benches, with Bomet introducing Duncan Mogasa, Brian Ngala, Festus Kipkemoi, and Evans Kipkemoi to inject fresh energy, while Sofapaka added Jamaine Khamatu and Stanley Lugalia to steady their shape and maintain attacking threat.

Despite their dominance in numbers, APS Bomet struggled to break down a resolute and disciplined Sofapaka defence.

The drama was not over, as Sofapaka were reduced to nine men in stoppage time when Shaibu received a second yellow card for handling the ball. Masembe nearly punished the hosts from the resulting free-kick, but his effort bent inches wide of Bomet’s last chance of the game.

Sofapaka held firm until full-time, earning applause for their grit and determination after spending over 45 minutes with fewer players.

Tusker, on the other hand, bounced back from consecutive defeats to Kenya Police and Gor Mahia with a crucial 1–0 win over Mara Sugar, easing pressure on coach Charles Okere and lifting the Brewers to fourth on 15 points.

Tusker started the match brightly, dictating tempo and pushing Mara Sugar deep into their own half.

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Their reward arrived in the 15th minute when Thomas Omolle Dugger calmly tucked home the opener from a well-constructed move, giving the Brewers early control.

The visitors continued to dominate the half, moving the ball with confidence and solidity. Mara Sugar struggled to create clear chances against a well-organised Tusker backline.

At halftime, Tusker refreshed their midfield with the introduction of David Polepole for Cliff Oruko. The tactical tweak kept the Brewers sharp in possession even as Mara Sugar attempted to push for an equaliser.

Yakeen Muteheli replaced Curtis Wekesa on the hour mark to add more energy, while Tusker kept their defensive structure intact despite a few nervy moments. Brandon Obiero received a yellow card in the 80th minute for time-wasting, but the Brewers remained composed.

In the closing stages, Okere made a double substitution, bringing on Chrispine Erambo and Ian Simiyu for Fabian Adikiny and goal scorer Omolle to stabilise the game and manage the remaining minutes.

Tusker saw out the match with professionalism, securing maximum points and ending their two-game slump. Mara Sugar remain 14th on 11 points.