Harambee Stars defender Collins Sichenje featured for the entire match as his Serbian side FK Vojvodina secured a hard-fought 1-0 away victory over Radnički Niš in the 15th round of the Serbian Super League on Saturday.
The victory marked an important return to form for Vojvodina after a 3-1 loss to IMT days ago, as they claimed all three points thanks to a 75th-minute header from John Mary, who proved to be the difference in a tightly contested encounter at the Čair Stadium in Niš.
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Vojvodina head coach Miroslav Tanjga made several tactical adjustments following recent performances, opting for a more compact defensive setup and Sichenje was at the heart of it.
The Harambee Stars defender, known for his composure and strength at the back, put in a commanding display that helped the team record a crucial clean sheet away from home.
The first half was a cagey affair, with Radnički Niš creating the better chances.
They thought they had taken the lead when Spasić found the back of the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside after Babakar interfered with play from an illegal position. Vojvodina’s goalkeeper Rosić was called into action several times, producing key saves to deny Spasić and keep his side in the game.
Vojvodina, who struggled to create clear chances from open play, looked more threatening from set pieces. Midfielder Petrović came close to scoring in the 26th minute with a powerful free kick from 30 meters, but his effort was tipped over by the Radnički goalkeeper.
In the second half, the visitors tightened their defensive structure, with Sichenje marshalling the backline effectively. His aerial presence and timely interceptions frustrated the Radnički forwards, allowing Vojvodina to grow into the game.
The breakthrough came in the 75th minute when Bukinać delivered a precise cross from the left, and John Mary rose highest to nod home the winner. The goal gave Vojvodina a deserved lead, and they held firm for the remaining minutes despite late pressure from the home side.
Radnički pushed for an equalizer, with Ashkovski and Belaković both going close, but Sichenje and his defensive partners stood tall to see out the result. Goalkeeper Rosić made one final save to deny Spasić in stoppage time, sealing a vital three points for “The Old Lady” from Novi Sad.
The result sees FK Vojvodina climb up the league standings upto the third place heading into the international break.
