Shabana FC head coach Peter Okidi has revealed the mistake that prevented Bandari from conceding three vital points, as both teams played out a 1-1 draw at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa.
Brian Michira gave the Gusii outfit the lead in the opening minute but Joseph Onyango salvaged a point for the dockers with his an equalizer for Ken Odhiambo’s side in the second half.
Speaking after the match, Okidi explained that they had strategized with the players to dominate the first half and score as many goals as possible, anticipating that the weather might affect their performance.
“We had agreed with the players, knowing that the weather could have an impact, so we aimed to score within the first 10 or 15 minutes. As you saw, we were already leading within 30 seconds of the game,” Okidi told Azam TV.
“We managed to withstand the pressure throughout the match despite the scorching heat, but our midfield faltered. They could not cope with the opponent’s passing.”
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Okidi further noted that some key players, who have been instrumental in the team’s good performances, were absent in their contribution, failing to deliver as expected.
“I would say that we have players with the pace to advance quickly in the frontline, like Brian Okoth, who was trying to apply pressure. However, my wingers, Msagha and Omondi, did not perform to the level we anticipated. I believe the weather played a significant role,” he remarked.
Despite the single point earned, the former Nakuru Bucks head coach felt his side deserved to win, citing two clear fouls that he believes should have resulted in penalties. He criticized the officiating but vowed to review the incidents.
“I want to talk about the officials. A foul is a foul. I think this game should have been a win for us because there were two penalties I was denied.
I will go back and check them but to me, those were fouls we deserved, and they could have won us the match,” Okidi said after the game.
Shabana currently sits in sixth place on the log with 24 points from 17 matches—six wins, six draws, and five losses. They will face Sofapaka in their next fixture on Sunday, January 26.
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