AFC Leopards missed another opportunity to narrow the gap to the top four as Shabana handed them their third consecutive league draw in a 1-1 stalemate, a match that was staged at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on Sunday evening.
Shabana were the first to break the deadlock through Kevin Nyabuto’s strike, before Ovella Ochieng equalized minutes before the end of the first half.
Ingwe, who needed the three points to close in on the top four, were to be separated by just one point from fourth-place KCB with 38 points.
As a result of this draw, they are now three points adrift, and nine points behind league leaders Tusker FC, who have 45 points.
However, in addition to their one game in hand, Ingwe remain unbeaten in their recent eight matches.
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On the other hand, the result means Shabana climb one spot in the standings with 34 points, leapfrogging Kakamega Homeboyz, who are now in seventh place, while Shabana move into sixth.
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In Machakos, the first 15 minutes of the match were marked by a cautious approach from both sides, with each team seeking to gain the advantage.
However, it was the visitors who looked the more determined side to break the deadlock.
In the 18th minute, Kevin Omundi gave Shabana the lead after a perfectly executed free kick was delivered into the box.
The ball was deflected by Kayci Odhiambo, and it fell kindly for Nyabuto, who made no mistake with his finish, finding the back of the net.
Shabana came close to doubling their advantage shortly after, with Omundi missing a brilliant opportunity from a cross sent in by Mark Shaban.
Despite this, Okidi side continued to hold their lead.
It was not until the 43rd minute of the game that Ingwe found the equalizer.
Clifton Miheso delivered a precise cross from the left wing into the box, where Ovella Ochieng was on hand to score a fantastic left-footed finish, leveling the game just before halftime.
With Shabana having defended resolutely in the first half, the teams went into the break with the score tied 1-1.
The second half began with AFC Leopards looking to assert themselves.
Hassan Beja’s attempt on goal was saved, while Shabana’s defense remained steadfast.
Moments later, goalkeeper Levis Opiyo pulled off a spectacular save to deny the visitors a second, as Brian Michira’s powerful shot from outside the box was expertly punched.
Despite both sides making substitutions to freshen up their lineups, neither team was able to further see the back of the net, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Shabana secured a crucial four points over AFC Leopards after winning the first leg at Gusii Stadium.
Teams XI
AFC Leopards:Levis Opiyo, Pateramaker Mabok, Lewi Bandi, Samuel Semo, Kayci Odhiambo, Musa Oundo, Ovella Ochieng, Clifton Miheso, Boniface Kweyu Munyendo, Maxwell Otieno, Beja Hassan.
Shabana: Maxwell Muchesia, Elvis Osok, James Mazembe, Mark Shaban, George Dizo, Justine Omwando, Kevin Omundi, Brian Michira, Darius Msagha, Vincent Nyabuto, Keith Imbali.