• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 2 days ago

‎Late drama as Leopards disarm Ulinzi, Sharks and Muranga pick vital wins

AFC Leopards scored deep into stoppage time to snatch a dramatic 2-1 win over Ulinzi Stars as Kariobangi Sharks and Murang’a Seal also claimed crucial victories in Thursday’s FKF Premier League matches.

‎At the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Leopards started the game on the front foot and created several early chances through James Kinyanjui, Tyson Otieno and Julius Masaba, but Ulinzi goalkeeper Timothy Odhiambo stood firm.

‎Ulinzi Stars relied on counter-attacks and set pieces, with Masita Masuta coming close before Leopards keeper Humphrey Katasi pulled off a fine save to keep the scores level.

‎Just before the break, Ingwe finally broke through. Samuel Semo delivered a well-taken free kick which Tyson Otieno finished calmly to give Leopards a 1-0 lead at halftime.

‎Ulinzi responded early in the second half when Paul Odhiambo headed home from a Telena Ochieng free kick to make it 1-1. The equaliser lifted the Soldiers, who pushed hard for a winner, but Leopards defended well.

‎When the match appeared headed for a draw, substitute Victor Otieno struck late to seal all three points for AFC Leopards in dramatic fashion.

‎‎Elsewhere in Murang’a, Murang’a Seal boosted their survival hopes with a narrow 1-0 win over Kenya Police.

Joe Waithira scored the only goal of the match, his fifth of the season, as Muranga ended a five-game winless run and moved out of the relegation zone.

‎‎At the Kasarani Annex, Kariobangi Sharks also picked up a vital 1-0 victory against Bidco United.

Returning from injury, Humphrey Aroko scored late to hand Sharks their second win of the season and keep their fight against relegation alive.

‎‎The results bring renewed hope for Leopards’ push up the table, while Sharks and Muranga gained much-needed momentum in their battle to avoid the drop.