NSL: Kisumu All Stars outsmart high-flying Shabana

Shabana FC’s quest to end the first leg of the National Super League (NSL) on a high suffered a setback after they lost 1-0 to Kisumu All Stars at Moi Stadium, Kisumu, on Saturday.

Andrew Aroka’s boys emerged victorious courtesy of a well-taken strike by Willis Otendah.

Meanwhile, the hosts almost took the lead in the second minute, but Laban Otieno, while on a very promising goal-scoring spot, unsuccessfully attempted to volley past Derrick Ongiri in Shabana's goal.

However, George Onyango did well as he reacted quickly to clear the dangerous ball and saved the visitors from conceding early in the game.

Frederick Omolo was yellow-carded in the 33rd minute for his unwarranted challenge on Shabana’s David Kalama.

All Stars broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Otendah – with a precise long-range shot - found the back of the net.

Shabana protested against the goal as they claimed there was a foul before Otendah struck past Ongiri.

Brian Ombura became the second player from the All Stars side to be booked when he received a yellow card in the 47th minute.

The home side made a change at the hour mark as the coach brought on Dismas Amunga as Japheth Odoke was withdrawn from the action.

Meanwhile, the Sammy Okoth-coached Shabana suffered another setback in the second half when Bernard Otieno was yellow carded in the 80th minute.

The Gusii-based side could not mount a comeback, and the hosts – who looked rather settled despite relentless late attacks from the opponents - picked up three vital points in the end.

Meanwhile, as the first leg comes to an end over the weekend, more matches have been lined up for Sunday.

Sunday matches

Murang’a Seal v Gusii (St Sebastian Park),

Kajiado v Kibera Black Stars (Ildamat Stadium),

MCF v Migori Youth (Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos),

Mara Sugar v Mwatate United (Green Stadium, Awendo).