Sportpesa League: Title race heats up as Shabana close gap with last-gasp victory

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Sportpesa League: Title race heats up as Shabana close gap with last-gasp victory

The Sportpesa League (FKFPL) served up late drama and crucial results across Nairobi, Mombasa and Wanguru in a thrilling round of fixtures.

Onyango’s last-gasp heroics lift Shabana

At Nyayo National Stadium, Shabana FC left it late to secure a vital 1-0 win over Mathare United.

With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Shabana captain George Onyango rose highest in stoppage time to head home a pinpoint cross from Bronson Nsubuga, sending the home fans into celebration.

The Glamour Boys, who started the day third on 37 points — nine behind leaders Gor Mahia and three behind AFC Leopards — knew anything less than victory would dent their title push.

The match itself was tightly contested, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances in the opening exchanges. Keith Imbali and Biron Otieno looked lively for Shabana down the flanks, while Mathare threatened sporadically through Paul Kinyanjui and Michael Oduor.

Imbali came closest before the break, forcing a superb double save from Kevin Ouru in the 45th minute.

After the interval, chances remained few and far between. Brian Olega squandered a golden opportunity early in the second half, while substitute Isaac Omweri tested Stephen Ochieng at the other end.

But just as the clock ticked past 90 minutes, Nsubuga delivered a teasing ball into the box and Onyango powered home the decisive header.

The win lifts Shabana to 40 points, level with AFC Leopards but still third on goal difference. Mathare remain 11th on 26 points.

Nairobi United held in Mombasa

In Mombasa, Nairobi United were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Bandari FC.

Benson Omala handed Nairobi the lead in the 23rd minute with a composed finish, but Bandari responded quickly through Amza Moubarack five minutes later.

Despite dominating possession with 66 per cent and registering 12 shots, Nairobi United could not find a breakthrough. Bandari, though limited in chances, were more clinical in front of goal.

Both sides shared the spoils in a result that leaves Nairobi United reflecting on missed opportunities.

Tusker earn first win under Mette

In Wanguru, Tusker FC edged Murang’a Seal 1-0 to hand coach Julien Mette his first victory since taking charge.

The decisive moment came in the 26th minute when Stephen Etyang floated in a cross that Ibrahim Joshua met with a precise header.

Tusker had opportunities to extend their lead through Erick Kapaito and David Polepole, but Murang’a Seal pushed hard after the break in search of an equaliser.

However, Tusker’s defence held firm to secure maximum points.

The victory moves Tusker to seventh on 31 points, while Murang’a Seal suffer back-to-back defeats in their bid to stay in the title conversation.

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