FKF Premier League: Sofapaka frustrate champions Gor Mahia’s title aspirations

Photo Credit - Sofapaka Familia.

Gor Mahia suffered a huge blow in their quest to win a third consecutive Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League title following a 1-1 draw against Sofapaka at Dandora Stadium on Saturday.

The record champions went into the game seeking to leapfrog Tusker in second place and staying a point behind leaders Kenya Police FC, who had suffered a 1-0 defeat against Ulinzi Stars in a fixture played on Friday.

Despite handing returning striker Benson Omalla a starting role, K’Ogalo found it difficult to break down a Batoto ba Mungu, who resorted to a more defensive style of play throughout the first half which ended in a 0-0 draw.

The second period saw K’Ogalo, who were missing the services of head coach Sinisa Mihic owing to suspension, start on a high but they could still not penetrate the tight Sofapaka defence. However, Joshua Onyango finally broke the deadlock in the 68th minute after he bundled off a loose ball into the net after Austin Odhiambo’s delivery.

Gor Mahia looked set to seal a double over Sofapaka, whom they had beaten 2-0 in the first round meeting, until the 90th minute when Douglas Kibet scored the leveller for Batoto ba Mungu to deny the champions maximum points.

The draw meant Gor Mahia remained third on the 18-team league table with 47 points, two less leaders Police FC, with a game in hand. Meanwhile, second-placed Tusker could move top if they manage to beat Nairobi City Stars on Sunday.

In another fixture, Kakamega Homeboyz secured a crucial 1-0 away win against Bandari FC at Mbaraki Sports Club. Homeboyz are now fifth with 41 points from 27 outings.

Sunday;

Murang’a Seal vs Kariobangi Sharks – SportPesa Arena – 3pm

Bidco United vs Mathare United – Kenyatta Stadium – 1pm

Tusker vs Nairobi City Stars – Kenyatta Stadium – 4pm

FC Talanta vs Shabana FC – Dandora Stadium – 3pm