• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 days ago

Nairobi United drink to Tusker win after Obiero’s costly error

Nairobi United ended their long wait for a win after capitalising on a rare goalkeeping mistake to beat Tusker 1-0 in a midweek Sportpesa League clash played at St. Sebastian Park, Murang’a on Wednesday.

‎The decisive moment came as early as the 11th minute when Tusker goalkeeper Brandon Obiero failed to deal with a long-range effort from Harambee Stars left-back Kelvin Otiende.

What looked like a harmless corner was only half-cleared, allowing Otiende to shoot from distance. Obiero got a hand to the ball, but could not stop it from hitting the post and crossing the line.

‎The defeat denied Tusker a chance to move top of the league and marked their first loss since November 22. The Brewers had come into the match on the back of three straight wins without conceding, but the early error changed the course of the game.

‎Nairobi United, coached by Nicholas Muyoti, started the match with confidence and pressed high from the opening minutes. Their pressure paid off with the early goal, and they nearly added another as Tusker struggled to settle. Michael Karamor and Duncan Ochieng both had good chances but failed to hit the target.

‎Tusker improved slightly towards halftime but wasted clear opportunities. Enock Machaka missed a free header in the 42nd minute.

‎After halftime, Tusker pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Vincent Owino was their brightest spark, testing Nairobi United goalkeeper Ernest Mohammed early in the second half and again late on. Fabian Adikiny, Eric Kapaito and Charles Momanyi also had chances, but none found the back of the net.

‎The win was Nairobi United’s first since their 4-2 victory over Kariobangi Sharks on November 8 and lifts them to 10th place on 16 points. Tusker remain third on the table with 21 points.