In a thrilling clash at Sudi Stadium, Nzoia Sugar Football Club orchestrated a spectacular late-game upset against Kariobangi Sharks, securing a crucial win to climb above the relegation zone in the Kenyan Premier League.
The dramatic encounter unfolded in the dying minutes, with substitute Emmanuel Osore seizing an opportunity created by a defensive lapse within the Sharks’ backline.
Osore capitalized on a moment of indecision, swiftly maneuvering past an idle ball to outmaneuver goalkeeper Bernard Jairo in the 90th minute, hammering home the solitary goal that sealed the fate of the game.
The tactical masterstroke of Nzoia Sugar’s Coach Godfrey “Solo” Oduor was evident as the decision to introduce Osore for Ian Simiyu proved pivotal in the team’s triumphant performance.
Entering the match at the bottom of the league table, Nzoia Sugar was determined to overcome the challenges and put on a resilient display against the embattled backdrop of Sudi Stadium.
The victory not only lifted the team’s spirits but also rekindled hope among their dedicated but weary fanbase after a sluggish start to the season.
The early minutes saw Nzoia Sugar almost take the lead in the 2nd minute, but an intervention by the referee nullified the goal, ruling a foul on the visiting goalkeeper Jairo.
Despite Kariobangi Sharks’ relentless efforts, the first half remained goalless, with Nzoia’s strategic gameplay frustrating their opponents and denying them the opportunity to showcase their trademark one-touch football.
It was not until the 90th minute that a miscommunication in the Sharks’ defense led to Nzoia’s winning goal, propelling them to a noteworthy 14th position on the table with 9 points from 10 matches, a significant 4-point trail behind the Sharks, who awkwardly arrived at Sudi Stadium aboard a Bungoma High School bus shutting the day in the 8th position.
This recent triumph significantly bolsters Nzoia Sugar’s confidence, especially following their goalless draw against Talanta FC away in Nairobi.
As they prepare for their upcoming fixture against struggling Shabana FC in Homa Bay County, the team, buoyed by two consecutive clean sheets, relies on the remarkable performances of goalkeeper Benson Mangala, who has replaced the suspicious Bernard Onunga whose unprofessional mess cost Nzoia Sugar against a clueless AFC Leopards at the same Sudi.