Substitute Javan Omondi’s second-half goal sealed Ulinzi Stars’ third straight win on Saturday afternoon, January 18, as they beat Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 at Dandora Stadium.
This victory brought Danstun Nayudo’s team to 10th placeth place in the league table with 22 points.
In contrast, William Muluya’s Sharks have now won just one of their last 13 games, their last victory coming on December 8, 2024, in a 1-0 win over Posta Rangers.
The Sharks have now slipped to 13th in the standings with 19 points after 17 matches, only managing to achieve four wins, seven draws and six defeats.
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Kariobangi Sharks were given a boost by the return of star striker Ally Salum, who returned after being sidelined for four months due to injury, starting the match.
Additionally, first-choice goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa rejoins the squad after international duty, replacing Bernard Jairo.
Speaking after the match, Muluya acknowledged his team’s poor performance, stating, “We didn’t play well; we are being defeated. There are many things to do. To win, we need more practice. I think we deserved to lose.”
Ulinzi’s first effort came in the 5th minute when Boniface Muchiri combined with Etteane Leshian, whose shot from distance was saved by Sebastian Wekesa.
In the 22nd minute, Victor Ngume was fouled near the box, and Ally Salum stepped in to take a free kick, but Ulinzi’s defense remained firm. Keith Imbali then fired a shot in the 31st minute, but it went over the bar.
A minute later, Ulinzi counterattacked, but both teams had difficulty taking advantage of opportunities so the match remained tight.
In the 45th minute, the Sharks threatened through Steve Bwire’s powerful shot, but Ulinzi goalkeeper Rick Omondi made the save, ensuring the two teams went into the break with a goalless draw.
Muluya was forced to make a substitution in the first half, bringing on Bernard Jairo for the injured Wekesa.
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The second half saw more effort from both sides.
At 46th In the minute, Keith Imbali’s shot was saved by Omondi, while in the 49th minute, Ngume’s low shot missed the target.
Bwire continued to press for a goal, and in the 55th minute, his shot was deflected by defender Ulinzi for a corner. Not long after, Victor Ngume was replaced by Izak Osambo.
Ulinzi made a few changes of his own, with Brian Kafero replaced by Enosh Ochieng, and Leshian replacing Javan Omondi.
The second half continued in the same manner as the first, with both teams pushing hard for the opening goal.
In the 78th minute, substitute Javan Omondi found the back of the net with a fine shot from the right wing, confusing the Sharks defenders and sending the ball past the keeper to give Ulinzi the lead.
Felix Otieno almost doubled Ulinzi’s lead in the 84th minute, but his effort was saved for a corner.
Ulinzi dominated the second half and maintained their slim lead, securing all three points and extending their good run.
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Ulinzi will now prepare to face league leaders Tusker FC next Saturday, while Kariobangi Sharks will look for a much-needed win against Bidco United on Sunday, January 26.
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