FKFPL: KCB stays unbeaten, Shabana holds Sharks

KCB FC continued their strong start to the 2024-2025 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season with a narrow 3-2 win over Tusker at St. Sebastian Park, Murang'a. The Bankers, under coach Patrick Odhiambo, remain unbeaten seven matches into the campaign, positioning themselves as serious contenders for their first league title.

Despite missing key players Faruk Shikalo and Patrick Otieno, who were on national duty for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier, KCB adapted well. Francis Kahiro struck twice within the first 12 minutes, bringing his season tally to five goals. Though Ryan Ogam pulled one back for Tusker in the 38th minute, James Kinyanjui restored KCB’s two-goal cushion. Ogam converted a late penalty, but Tusker’s comeback fell short as KCB secured all three points.

Tusker coach Charles Okere faces mounting pressure following a poor start, with the team winning just two matches. KCB, on the other hand, continues to impress, showing they are ready to challenge for the title.

Earlier in the day, Mathare United picked up a 2-0 victory over FC Talanta at Dandora Stadium. Centre-back Cetric Asango opened the scoring with a header in the 49th minute, and Elli Asieche doubled the lead in the 62nd minute. The win helped ease pressure on Mathare coach John Kamau after a previous defeat to Kenya Police FC.

Meanwhile, Shabana FC and Kariobangi Sharks played out a 1-1 draw at Dandora Stadium, with both teams missing their head coaches due to external assignments. Shabana's head coach Sammy 'Pamzo' Omollo was notably absent, having stepped aside amid a challenging start to the season, leaving former goalkeeper David Juma to manage the match from the sidelines. Kariobangi Sharks’ head coach William Muluya was away with Harambee Stars for CHAN duties, leaving assistant coach Ezekiel Seda in charge.

Despite the absence of their tacticians, both teams played a competitive match. Shabana took the lead in the 56th minute through Brian Michira, who scored with a powerful shot after dribbling past his marker. However, Sharks equalized in the 64th minute when Keith Imbali converted a penalty, a decision that sparked protests from the Shabana camp.

After the match, Juma questioned the penalty call but remained optimistic about Shabana's future performances. Sharks’ assistant coach Seda noted that improved passing could have turned the draw into a win for his side.