James Kibande’s header deepens Nzoia Sugar’s relegation woes as Tusker secure hard-fought win

Photo || Tusker

James Kibande’s header deepens Nzoia Sugar’s relegation woes as Tusker secure hard-fought win

Joel Omotto 17:59 - 06.05.2024

Tusker FC made it back-to-back league wins as James Kibande’s lone goal secured maximum points against bottom-placed Nzoia who looked destined for the second tier.

Tusker FC deepened Nzoia Sugar’s relegation fears following a 1-0 victory in an FKF Premier League match played at Dandora Stadium on Monday.

Nzoia’s work was made easy when Tusker were reduced to 10 men in the 42nd minute following an off the ball incident but the basement side did not take full advantage.

This came after Nzoia had a penalty saved after 10 minutes. Kevin Simiyu was brought down in the box and the referee pointed to the spot but Tusker goalkeeper Brian Bwire came up trumps as he saved the striker’s spot kick.

Tusker then huffed and puffed in search of a goal and it arrived late when James Kibande scored 11 minutes from time following a delightful cross from Deogratious Ojok.

Ojok’s floated ball found former Nzoia man Kibande free at the back post and he headed home what turned out to the be the only goal of the match.

Victory saw Tusker stay third on the table with 49 points, 11 behind league leaders Gor Mahia with six matches to go.

Nzoia, meanwhile, seem headed to the second tier National Super League after suffering their 19th league defeat of the season.

The Bungoma-based side are bottom of the log with 17 points from 28 games and face a situation where they must win all remaining six matches to escape the axe.

Based on their form this season, that looks impossible with KCB, Kakamega Homeboyz, Nairobi City Stars, Ulinzi Stars, Muhoroni Youth and Sofapaka the teams they are up against.