In a strategic bid to avert a recurrence of their prior defensive vulnerabilities, Sofapaka exhibited unwavering resilience at Machakos Stadium on the 19th of January, 2024. The team not only successfully thwarted Kakamega Homeboyz’s offensive attempts but also defied expectations by securing a pivotal three-pointer, thereby extricating themselves from the looming specter of relegation. Darius Msagha emerged as the linchpin in this endeavor, netting a game-changing 84th-minute goal that single-handedly preserved his team’s standing. An emblem of tactical prowess, Coach Zedekiah Zico Otieno notched his second triumph in three games, underscoring his adept leadership amid the ebbs and flows of the match.
Seeking retribution for their prior setback against Bandari, K.Sharks swiftly asserted dominance at Mbaraki Grounds on the 2nd day of matchweek 19. In the 5th minute, Geoffrey Onyango orchestrated a precision ball into the area, igniting a scoring initiative. Mmata capitalized on the opportunity, with Ochuka’s spillage fortuitously creating a path for Ngunyi to secure the opening goal. Despite K.Sharks’ early lead, the dockers demonstrated resilience and equalized in added minutes of the first half through Wadri’s corner, expertly connected by Juma for Kasumba to finish. The first half concluded with a 1-1 scoreline.
The second half commenced with renewed energy from Bandari, and in the 75th minute, they secured their second goal through Shasirr amidst a goal-mouth melee. However, Wasambo promptly countered with an equalizer in the 82nd minute ending the game in a draw.
Elsewhere, at Raila Odinga Stadium, the Ulinzi squad initiated an early surge towards victory against Shabana FC. Executing a precise play, Leshan skillfully set up Masuta, who found the net in the game’s inaugural minute—a remarkably prompt moment in the match. Proving to be a decisive turn, this early goal defined the outcome as the game concluded with a 1-0 scoreline.
The defending champions secured an early lead in the eagerly awaited clash against Tusker FC. Austine exhibited finesse, skillfully curving a free kick over the wall and into the net in the 20th minute of the first half. Despite an eventful second half, Gor Mahia concluded with a lead, firmly holding their position at the summit of the league table.
To cap off Day two of matchweek 18, the clash between KCB FC and Muhoroni Youth at Thika Stadium unfolded in a heated and captivating manner, but ultimately culminated in a goalless stalemate.
Below are the fixtures for the 21st of January 2024, matchweek 19.
FC Talanta vs Bidco United, Machakos Stadium, 13:00 (LIVE).
Police FC vs Nzoia Sugar, Police Sacco Stadium, 15:00.
AFC Leopards vs NRB. City Stars, Bukhungu Stadium, 15:00.
Posta Rangers vs Murang’a Seal, Machakos Stadium, 16:00 (LIVE).
