Substitute Javan Omondi’s second-half goal secured Ulinzi Stars’ third consecutive victory on Saturday afternoon, January 18, as they defeated floundering Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 at the Dandora Stadium.
This win propelled Danstun Nayudo’s side to 10th place on the league table with 22 points.
Conversely, William Muluya’s Sharks have now won only one of their last 13 matches, their most recent victory being on December 8, 2024, when they triumphed 1-0 over Posta Rangers.
Sharks now slip to 13th on the standings with 19 points after 17 games, having managed just four wins, seven draws, and six losses.
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Kariobangi Sharks received a boost with the return of star striker Ally Salum, who made his comeback after a four-month injury layoff, starting in the match.
Additionally, first-choice goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa rejoined the squad following international duty, replacing Bernard Jairo.
Speaking after the match Muluya acknowledged his team’s poor performance, stating, “We are not playing well; we are being defeated. There is a lot to be done. For the win, we need more training. I think we deserved to lose.”
Ulinzi’s first attempt 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 up to take the resulting free kick, but Ulinzi’s defense stood firm. Keith Imbali then had a shot in the 31st minute, but it sailed over the bar.
A minute later, Ulinzi counterattacked, but both teams struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, keeping the match tightly contested.
In the 45th minute, Sharks threatened with a powerful shot from Steve Bwire, but Ulinzi’s goalkeeper Rick Omondi made the save, ensuring the teams went into the break with a goalless draw.
Muluya was forced to make a substitution at halftime, bringing on Bernard Jairo for the injured Wekesa.
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The second half saw more attempts from both sides.
In the 46th minute, Keith Imbali had a shot 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 Ulinzi’s defenders for a corner. Shortly after, Victor Ngume was replaced by Izak Osambo.
Ulinzi made some changes of their own, with Brian Kafero replaced by Enosh Ochieng, and Leshian substituted for Javan Omondi.
The second half continued in much the same manner as the first, with both teams pushing for the opening goal.
In the 78th minute, substitute Javan Omondi found the net with a well-kicked shot from the right wing, confusing the Sharks defenders and sending the ball past the goalkeeper to give Ulinzi the lead.
Felix Otieno nearly doubled Ulinzi’s advantage in the 84th minute, but his attempt was saved for a corner.
Ulinzi dominated the second half and held on to their narrow lead, securing all three points and extending their good form.
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Ulinzi will now prepare to face league leaders Tusker FC next Saturday, while Kariobangi Sharks will seek a much-needed win against Bidco United on Sunday, January 26.
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