Shabana FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Posta Rangers on Wednesday afternoon in a 24/25 Football Kenya Federation Premier League match at a packed Gusii Stadium.
Shabana conceded the opening goal when Shami Mwinyi Kibwana gave Posta Rangers the lead. However, Brian Michira equalized for Shabana, allowing both teams to share the spoils.
Tore Bobe were looking to bounce back from their 2-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz over the weekend, with hopes that the draw would help the Gusii-based team maintain their position in 10th place, having accumulated 12 points from three wins, four draws and four losses.
Meanwhile, Posta Rangers extended their unbeaten streak to three matches, following a 3-1 victory over Bidco United and a goalless draw against FC Talanta. They are currently at the bottom of the table with 10 points from two wins, four draws, and four losses.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 392 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
Shabana dominated the first half, pressing for a goal. In the 17th minute, Ezekiah Omuri had a clear chance to give the hosts the lead, but Posta’s goalkeeper Lazararu Otieno was equal to the task and saved it.
Two minutes later, Shabana earned a free kick, which Justine Omwando stepped up to take, but his effort narrowly missed the target.
In the 29th minute, Mathew Tegisi came close to scoring, but his shot went wide, denying Shabana the lead.
Despite Shabana’s pressure, Posta Rangers capitalized on their only real chance in the 40th minute. Shami Mwinyi Kibwana scored, assisted by Curtis Wekesa, and Shabana found themselves trailing at home going into halftime.
In the second half, Shabana made an early substitution as Peter Okidi brought in Christopher Raila for Sam Kintu in the 46th minute.
However, the change had little immediate effect, and in the 73rd minute, Okidi made a triple substitution with Marvin Brian, Msagha Darius and Ezekiah Omuri replaced by Bett Mashinani, Okoth Dennis and Omundi Kevin respectively.
Six minutes later, Shabana equalized through Brian Michira, who took full advantage of a well-placed free kick to level the score.
Both teams pressed for a winner, but after 90 minutes, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both sides settling for a point.
Shabana’s next match is at home against Talanta FC on Sunday, December 8, while Bernard Kawinzi’s side will host Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday, December 7.
ALSO READ: Kenya Police FC winless run ends after hard-fought win over Nairobi City Stars