• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 6 days ago

Tusker sip to FKF Cup final slot as they leave KCB tipsy after penalty shootouts

Tusker are through to the final of the FKF Cup after beating KCB 4-3 on penalties following a goalless draw in their semi-final match played at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday.

The victory keeps Tusker’s hopes alive of winning their first FKF Cup title in 10 years. The Brewers are now just one match away from lifting the trophy again after a hard-fought encounter against the Bankers.

Goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila was the hero for Tusker after saving the final penalty taken by David Sakwa to seal the win.

The match started cautiously, with both teams struggling to create clear chances in the opening minutes. Tusker came close in the ninth minute when Stephen Etyang’ delivered a dangerous cross into the box, but KCB goalkeeper Amatton Samunya reacted quickly to stop the danger.

KCB responded with chances of their own, but Francis Kahiro failed to convert in the 15th minute before missing another big opportunity just before halftime after being denied by Charles Momanyi.

Tusker also had chances through Thomas Omolle and Erick Kapaito, but neither side could find the breakthrough as the match ended goalless after regular time.

In the second half, both teams continued to press forward, with Chris Erambo and Fortune Omotto coming close for their respective sides. Sakwa nearly won it late for KCB, but his effort struck the side netting.

The match was eventually decided through penalties. Tusker converted four spot kicks through Ian Simiyu, Chris Erambo, Ibrahim Joshua and Fabian Adikiny. Dennis Iguma missed his attempt after hitting the crossbar.

For KCB, Mohammed Siraj, Kelvin Etemesi and Clyde Senaji scored, while Mieno and Sakwa failed from the spot.

Tusker will now face the winner between Kenya Police and Bandari in the final set for June 14 at Kwale Stadium.