The 24/25 Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) title race took a twist after Tusker FC and Kenya Police FC played to a goalless draw on Saturday evening at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos County.
The results mean both teams are still tied on 38 points but Police sitting at the summit on a superior goal difference.
In addition to the title race, this could be positive news for the reigning champions, Gor Mahia, who managed to narrow the points gap to just four after edging out Mathare United 1-2 at Dandora Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
In Machakos, a well-executed free kick by Abud Omar in the 15th minute could have been perfectly placed but Brian Okoth’s footwork was insufficient, and his shot went wide, denying the visitors an early lead.
Two minutes later, the law enforcers were relentless in their pursuit of a leading goal, as they had a golden opportunity to go three points clear at the top of the table.
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Brian Okoth delivered a long free kick into the box, where it found David Irishura feet. Irishura then passed it to Marvin Nabwire, whose shot was deflected to Timothy Oyanda, allowing Brian Apondo to make a vital save and keep the match in a tense stalemate.
Tusker’s most dangerous attempt came when James Kibande attempted a strike from the left wing, but there was no one in the box to make the crucial finish. They did, however, win a corner after Job Ochieng made a key save.
With just a minute remaining in the first half, Fabian Adikiny took a strike that went wide, and both teams entered the break with a 0-0 draw.
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In the 60th minute, Police had another attempt from Daniel Musamali, followed by a dangerous follow-up that went over the bar.
Police dominated the second half but were unable to convert their efforts into goals, as both teams ultimately shared the spoils.
Police’s unbeaten run has now stretched to 12 matches, while Tusker remain unbeaten in their last five matches as the competition intensifies.
Elsewhere, at Mbaraki Grounds in Mombasa, Sofapaka’s winless streak stretched to five matches as they were handed a 1-0 defeat by Bandari FC.
Alfred Emoni’s strike proved to be the difference, securing Ken Odhiambo’s side their third consecutive victory and propelling them to fourth place on the table with 32 points after a brief slump in form.
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Meanwhile, Sofapaka remains in ninth place with 25 points, as their performances continue to worsen following the departure of Robert Matano.
In another fixture, Nairobi City Stars’ struggles deepened as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Bidco United at Kenyatta Stadium.
Saturday FKFPL Results
• Mathare United 1-2 Gor Mahia
• Tusker FC 0-0 Police FC
• Bandari 1-0 Sofapaka
• Bidco United 1-1 Nairobi City Stars