KCB’s hopes of claiming the top spot in the FKF Premier League were dealt a blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Nairobi City Stars in a hard-fought encounter at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.
The Bankers, needing a win to leapfrog Tusker at the summit of the league standings, were made to work hard for their point after going behind early in the match. City Stars took the lead in the fifth minute when KCB’s centre-back Francis Oduor inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. Oduor, attempting to clear a header from Kevin Etemesi, failed to make proper contact, allowing the ball to sail past goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe and into the net.
KCB responded in the 22nd minute, leveling the score at 1-1. Philemon Nyakwaka, making his first appearance on the scoresheet this season, was in the right place at the right time to tap in a cutback from Kelvin Okumu. Mukolwe, who had been fully stretched in an attempt to keep the ball out, could do nothing as Nyakwaka found the back of the net.
Despite pressing for the win, KCB could not find a second goal, with City Stars putting up a resilient defensive display to ensure the match ended all square.
The result leaves KCB still trailing at the top, as they now await the outcome of the crucial fixture between Tusker and Gor Mahia. However, coach Patrick Odhiambo’s side will know that they missed a golden opportunity to move ahead in the title race, with the draw leaving them with much to do in their remaining fixtures.
