• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 16 hrs ago

Kariobangi Sharks boost survival hopes as they stall leaders Gor Mahia’s title charge

Kariobangi Sharks produced a brave performance to hold league leaders Gor Mahia to a goalless draw, dealing a blow to their title charge while boosting their own survival hopes in the Kenyan Premier League.

The Sharks stood firm from start to finish in a fast-paced match, frustrating the record champions who failed to break them down despite creating several chances.

Gor Mahia started brightly and nearly took an early lead when Samuel Kapen fired over the bar from close range. Kariobangi Sharks responded quickly, with Stephen Mbulere and David Majak both coming close, but poor finishing denied them the opener.

The game remained open, with both sides attacking, but goalkeepers Gad Mathews and Sebastian Wekesa made crucial saves to keep the score level going into halftime.

In the second half, Gor Mahia pushed harder in search of a goal. Shariff Musa came close shortly after the restart, but Wekesa made a strong save before the rebound was wasted.

Kariobangi Sharks continued to threaten on the counter, with Mbulere and Humphrey Aroko linking up well, but they could not find the final touch.

As pressure mounted, Gor Mahia made changes to inject fresh energy, but their finishing let them down. Late chances, including a free kick from Alpha Onyango, were well handled by Wekesa.

In the final minutes, Gor Mahia threw numbers forward, but the Sharks defended bravely to secure a vital point.

The result slows Gor Mahia’s march towards the title, leaving them five points clear at the top, with rivals AFC Leopards now within touching distance as the season enters its final stretch.

For Kariobangi Sharks, the point is crucial. They move up to 14th place with 26 points, easing their relegation fears and showing renewed belief in their fight to stay in the top flight.