A weekend of drama and controversy in the FKF Premier League saw Shabana hand Bernard Mwalala his first defeat as Bandari boss, while Kariobangi Sharks climbed out of the danger zone with a nervy win over Ulinzi Stars.
Penalty Storm at Gusii Ends Mwalala’s Run
At Gusii Stadium, a single, contentious moment decided a fiery encounter.
In the 27th minute, referee Emmanuel Ochieng pointed to the spot after home players convinced him Clifford Ouma had handled in the box. Replays told a different story — Ouma never came close to the ball and the official’s positioning left much to be desired.
Brian Michira coolly dispatched the penalty, repeating his first-leg heroics and handing Shabana a 1–0 victory that snapped Mwalala’s unbeaten start of three wins and a draw since leaving Tore Bobe for the Dockers.
The match was punctuated by another controversial call earlier on, when Darius Msagha appeared to finish a neat move from Omar Rajab, only for assistant Jane Cherono to flag for offside. Those two pivotal decisions will dominate post-match debate as clubs renew calls for improved officiating standards.
Bandari Left Furious and Frustrated
Bandari left Gusii feeling robbed. The disallowed goal and the penalty decision combined to turn what had been a promising afternoon into a bitter defeat. Emotions ran high as the visitors questioned the integrity of the calls that ultimately decided the contest, and supporters demanded answers as the league’s refereeing standards came under renewed scrutiny.
Sharks Breathe as Aroko’s Penalty Seals Vital Win
Over at Kasarani Annex, relegation-threatened Kariobangi Sharks ended a five-game winless run with a 1–0 triumph over Ulinzi Stars.
The decisive moment arrived in the 40th minute when Humphrey Aroko stepped up and converted from the spot after Ulinzi were penalised for handling in the area. The goal proved enough as Sharks’ goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa made several key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
The match was end-to-end at times, with Ulinzi pressing hard after the break and introducing Staphod Odhiambo to chase an equaliser.
Paul Odhiambo and Boniface Muchiri tested the Sharks defence with crosses and set-pieces, but the military side could not find the finishing touch. Sharks’ victory lifts them to 15th on the table with 17 points, level on points with Ulinzi but ahead on goal difference.
Other Results and the Weekend Round-Up
At St. Sebastian Park, Murang’a Seal edged APS Bomet 2–1 thanks to a brace from Joe Waithira, with Philiph Wasai grabbing a consolation for Bomet.
It was another weekend that underlined the fine margins in this season’s campaign — refereeing controversies, late drama and crucial penalties continuing to shape the table.
What Comes Next
As debate rages over officiating and teams scramble for points, the league’s drama shows no sign of easing. Shabana’s win hands them bragging rights and a statement result, while Sharks’ lifeline gives them fresh hope in a relegation battle that promises to go down to the wire.
