Storm is over as AFC Leopards rediscover winning ways in KPL

Sony Sugar FC's Naftali Okombo, left, and AFC Leopards' Noah Wafula fight for ball control during KPL Mtch at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, May 1st, 2015. PHOTO/ JONAH ONYANGO.

The worst could be over for AFC Leopards after they crushed SoNy Sugar 5-1 in Friday’s Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match at Nyayo Stadium.

The six-goal thriller contributed to a record 19 goals scored in eight matches between Friday and Sunday.

Prior to the huge win, Leopards had lost two matches in a row as a financial pinch began to bite at the club.

It was a victory that was inspired by youthful striker Michael Khamati, who scored twice on a day he was celebrating his birthday. Besides, he had also been handed the captain’s arm band.

“I am delighted by the fans who came out in large numbers to cheer the team. Their presence made a huge difference and to hear them sing a happy birthday song to me was just amazing,” said Khamati after the match.

Khamati was equally delighted that the team picked their biggest win this season under his command.

“It is the first time I was wearing the arm band and for us to register such a huge win on such an occasion was just great,” he added.

For SoNy Sugar coach Zedekiah Otieno, this was the lowest moment in his coaching career.

In the KPL official website, Otieno said: “This is crushing. Nobody expected this kind of result. I made two changes in defence and maybe that cost us. In all my coaching days, this is the worst result I have ever recorded.”

Champions Gor Mahia put up a splendid show to outwit Ulinzi Stars 2-0 and extend their lead at the top of the log by four points.

As usual, Gor Mahia were on top and deserved to win this match with a splendid performance from youthful striker Michael Olunga.

POOR OFFICIATING

Ulinzi Stars coach Robert Matano, however, complained over poor officiating after the match.

Matano had harsh words for centre referee George Mwai, whom he called ‘bogus’ and said does not even deserve to handle a division-one match.

He said:”He (Mwai) denied us two penalties. That was bad officiating and the referee is bogus and does not even deserve to handle a division one match.”

Matano, at the same time, admitted his players made some mistakes which cost them.

“Our opponents did not create any chances but took advantage of our mistakes to score the two goals. We also missed Ezekiel Otuoma and Steven Ocholla.”

Chemelil Sugar returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Ushuru FC on Sunday. It was the miller’s second win of the season after a slow start.