In arguably the biggest match in women’s football in the country, Ulinzi Starlets played to a 2-2 draw against Vihiga Queens in a thrilling Sunday afternoon encounter at Ruaraka Grounds.
Vihiga Queens’ coach opted for a young squad, handing starting berths to mid-season signings Mourine Eseri, Christine Adhiambo, and Swaumu Nanjala. Nanjala made an impressive competitive debut for the four-time champions, scoring a goal and providing an assist.
The first 15 minutes were largely uneventful, with no significant attacking threats from either side.
Vihiga opened the scoring in the 37th minute, with Swaumu Nanjala latching onto Alice Ukiru’s delivery to slot the ball past Ulinzi Starlets’ goalkeeper, Judith Osimbo.
Six minutes later, Nanjala turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross into the opponent’s box, which Diana Cherono headed past the goalkeeper, giving Vihiga a 2-0 advantage at the break.
The second half saw a resurgent Ulinzi Starlets as head coach Collins Ochieng’ made a triple substitution, introducing Siliya Rasoha, Lucy Nato, and Mary Adongo in place of Linda Kihara, Cindy Ngaira, and Diana Shakava. After relentless efforts to reduce the deficit, Ulinzi’s breakthrough came in the 72nd minute, thanks to a brilliant counter-attacking run by Joy Kinglady Oriyo, who found the back of the net.
Just three minutes later, Ulinzi drew level after a defensive mix-up from Vihiga resulted in an own goal following a well-taken corner kick.
Ulinzi Starlets had a golden opportunity to secure all three points late in the second half, but Sheryl Angachi missed a glorious chance, failing to control the ball with an open net to tap into.
The result leaves Vihiga Queens in third place, four points off the top spot, while Ulinzi Starlets are fifth after 12 matches in the KWPL.
Starting Lineups
Ulinzi Starlets
Judith Osimbo, Diana Shakava, Sophie Adhiambo, Margaret Odiro, Tabitha Amoit, Lavender Akinyi, Sheryl Angachi, Cindy Ngaira, Joy Kinglady, Linda Kihara, Fasila Adhiambo.
Vihiga Queens
Ruth Aturo, Christine Adhiambo, Yvonne Muyoka, Ruth Khasoha, Providence Khasiala, Mourine Eseri, Martha Amunyolette, Susan Muhonja, Diana Cherono, Swaumu Nanjala, Alice Ukiru.
