Shabana FC came from behind to defeat Talanta FC 2-1 at Gusii Stadium on Sunday afternoon, securing their fourth win of the season and their third victory at home.
Emmanuel Osoro broke the deadlock for Talanta FC in the 3rd minute, but star player Brian Michira equalized just two minutes later. Michira then sealed his brace and gave Shabana the lead in the 55th minute, lifting Peter Okidi’s side to victory.
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The win propelled Shabana up to eighth place with 16 points after 12 matches, while Jackline Juma’s Talanta side continues to struggle in 16th place with 10 points, increasing the pressure on their technical team.
Shabana displayed determination, pressing for the win after leveling the score in the 8th minute. Mathew Tegisi missed a clear chance that could have given the hosts the lead.
Shabana were forced to make an early substitution when Justine Omwando picked up an injury and could not continue.
Shem Odinga replaced him in the 30th minute. In the 39th minute, Shabana nearly doubled their lead through Kevin Omundi, but Talanta’s defenders were quick to clear the danger.
Four minutes later, Omundi delivered a brilliant cross to Ezekiah Omuri, but his shot went over the bar.
The first half ended with both teams locked at 1-1. In the second half, Okidi made an immediate substitution, bringing off Ezekiah Omuri for Samuel Maiko Kadoz. Shabana, continuing their attacking pressure, saw Brian Michira score his sixth goal of the season in the 54th minute, putting Shabana ahead 2-1.
Shabana made their third substitution when Kevin Omundi was replaced by Sam Kintu to strengthen the defense. Mathew Tegisi had a poor outing, narrowly missing a close-range opportunity in the 76th minute that could have given Shabana a third goal.
Despite a missed chance for Michira to complete his hat-trick, the match ended with Shabana claiming the crucial three points.
Shabana now turns their attention to two upcoming fixtures. They will face Gor Mahia in a rescheduled match on Wednesday, December 11th, followed by a clash with league leaders KCB on Sunday, December 15th, at Gusii Stadium.
Elsewhere at Kenyatta Stadium, Kariobangi Sharks edged Posta Rangers 1-0, thanks to Paul Jawa’s only goal of the match.
The victory ended a seven-match winless streak for the Sharks, who had gone six weeks without a win. William Muluya’s side can now breathe easier, despite dealing with a series of injury setbacks since their last win against Kakamega Homeboyz in September.
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