NAIROBI, February 27 – GOtv Shield Champions Sofapaka were bundled out of CAF Confederations Cup at the preliminary round after going down 4-2 on aggregate to Zimbabweans FC Platinum.

Sofapaka who needed a two-goal-victory to advance to the first round were on the receiving end on another 2-1 loss in the return leg played in Zvishavane, Zimbabwe on Saturday.

Batoto Ba Mungu’s lethal striker Abdul Fiston Razak gave the visitors an early lead on the 11th minute to level the aggregate scores but Wisdom Mutasa scored a brace after finding the back of the net on each half to break the Cup holders’ dreams of repeating their 2011 run in the competition when they bowed out at the group stage play-offs.

Sofapaka head coach Sam Timbe made four changes to the squad that played in the first leg with Everiste Mutuyimana staring in between the sticks benching David Okello while defenders Collins Shivachi and Elly Esieche came on for Willis Ouma and Patrick Kagogo.

The hosts began with a threatening attack from Walter Munsona but Sofapaka stopper Felly Mulumba cleared the danger moments before Razak, who scored the consolation goal in Nairobi in a 2-1 home loss, piled pressure on Platinum when he found the back of the net.

The lead only lasted only four minutes with Mutasa restoring parity at the quarter hour mark from close range.

Musona continued to terrorize the Kenyans defence after exchanging passes with Mutasa before setting Brian Muzondiwa who saw his free header go over the bar as both sides were locked at one-all draw at the break.

Mutasa completed his double on the 54th to give his control of the game to the final whistle.

Platinum will now face Tanzania titans Young Africans in the first round.

NAIROBI, March 1 –George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo came off the bench to grab the stoppage goal that sent Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia through to the first round of CAF Champions League on the away goals rule despite going down 3-2 to CNaPS in Madagascar in a pulsating second leg Sunday.

K’Ogalo who needed a draw to advance after carrying a slim 1-0 win from the home leg forced a 3-3 tie on aggregate in Miarinarivo where in form Victor Ali Abondo netted the other goal.

Gor head coach Frank Nuttall made a change from the squad that played in the first leg with Collins Okoth replacing Jerry Santos in the midfield.

The visitors began the encounter on a low with CNaPS missing an early penalty before they found the back of the net on the fifth minute from a deflected shot to level the aggregate score at a one-all.

Youngster Michael Olunga who finally got his debut goal for Gor against Mathare United in their opening KPL match squandered a golden chance in the 22nd to level.

K’Ogalo’s efforts paid off in the 35th when Abondo scored a crucial away goal and his sixth since rejoining the team from Tusker FC this season to restore parity.

Nuttall’s defence failed to hold on the 2-1 aggregate lead with CNaPS going ahead three minutes later after their striker weaved past Kevin Oluoch and Musa Mohammed to place the ball beyond keeper Boniface Oluoch.

And on the stroke of halftime, it was 3-1 on the day as Gor conceded again to leave them facing the early exit door.

Playing in front of their home fans, the hosts returned with a defensive mind but Olunga managed to break through the backline and beat the keeper only to see his effort cleared on the line.

The visitors continued to pile pressure but their hard work could not pay forcing Nuttall to replace Ronald Omino with Odhiambo who emerged the hero by sending Gor through in added time to set up a first round two-legged knockout crash against Congo’s AC Leopards.

NAIROBI, March 3- The High Court has given Football Kenya Federation and Kenyan Premier League to resolve their long-running feud by Thursday as officials of the latter risk jail for disobeying a court order requiring them not to run their competition.

If the two fail to thrash out an agreement within the next 48 hours to end the parallel leagues brought by their dispute over the size of the premier league, the court will turn to judicial remedies to end the impasse.

Civil division judge; Lady Justice Aburili was told Tuesday KPL officials without colour proceeded to conduct the premier league matches when they are quite aware of the orders restraining them.

Consequently KPL officials Ambrose Rachier, Allan Kasavuli, Elly Kulekwa, James Musyoki, Bob Munro, Jack Oguda and Col Juma Munyikai will be required to appear in court when the application for contempt comes up for hearing next week.

However an attempt by former FKF vice-president Sammy Shollei and Nairobi Representative Dan Shikanda seeking to be enjoined in the dispute was disallowed, until their application rejoinder is argued fully and the court makes decision.

FKF lawyer Eric Mutua strongly opposed the two from being made to the proceeding on grounds that they duo had been banned from taking part in the management of football for six by federation.

Mutua told the court he needs time to file documents to show that two cannot be enjoined the civil suit.

The application to embattled former officials of FKF will be argued on Thursday.

Justice Aburili urged the parties in the dispute to continue discussing in a view of arriving at amicable resolution to solve the wrangles.

The judge observed that for the interest of country there is need for parties to agree the way forward.

The court extended the order halting KPL from conducting leagues matches until the dispute is heard.

-Acrimony-

FKF had moved to court through its president Sam Nyamweya and obtained orders restraining the company from hosting or managing a parallel premier league.

The restraining order was issued by Justice Mbogholi Msagha he directed that same be served upon respondents.

KPL attempted to lift the orders on grounds that there was material non-disclosure and misrepresentation and their application will be argued next week.

The last meeting between both parties mid last month at a Nairobi hotel ended in acrimony when KPL walked out of talks claiming FKF were intent on using their numerical advantage to force their chosen 18-team league format through a vote.

KPL who insist on having a 16-team format went on to play their opening round of the 2015 KPL before they suspended the competition indefinitely pending determination of the ongoing civil suit.

The FKF PL has kicked off proper last weekend after the federation promoted 14 Nationwide Super League sides to take the place of the KPL teams that failed to meet their deadline to register with them.

NAIROBI, March 3- The draw for the 2015 SportPesa Super 8 Tournament was conducted Tuesday with 35 team from participating regions except Kamukunji getting byes to the next round.

Representatives from 101 Nairobi estate teams taking part were present for the exercise with Dagoretti, Embakasi, Westlands, Kasarani, Makadara, Starehe and Langata completing the Nairobi regions that will take part.

Organisers, Extreme Sports CEO Hussein Mohammed revealed every team would be awarded with full kit and balls after the tournament.

The second placed candidate in the 2011 Football Kenya Federation (FKF) elections also hinted at establishing an annual Nairobi County League as well as other junior competitions in future.

“We want this tournament to serve as benchmark on how other leagues in the country should be run professionally.

“We hope in future to have the Extreme Sports Nairobi County League as well as run other youth and women leagues. It is very possible and we are setting the right structures for it,” he added.

The first matches of the 2015 SportPesa Super 8 Tournament will be played on March 14.

Draw

Dagoretti

Thirteen teams were given byes from the preliminary stage while six will play in it. Riruta Baptist FC, Dagoretti Santos, Impala FC, Psalms 105, Makombora Bulls, Congo Youth, Kid Star FC, Muslim FC, One Stone, Kawangware United, NYSA, Gachui Black Boots and Waithaka Babes were given byes while Red Star will face Melta, Young Tremors will take on Mutuini Rangers and Hayos FC will fight it out with Riruta Youth in the preliminaries that will be played on a home and away format.

Embakasi

Three teams got byes from the preliminary stage; Ummoinner FC, Kayole Youth and Mambo Tick FC while Soweto Hope will face McMillan FC, Ruai United versus Yashua FC, KayoleAsubuhi will face Sunrise FC, FulnescoDymes will have a tricky tie against Riara University FC while Picasso FC will square it off with Tena United in the pre-quarters.

Westlands

Only two team got byes in the Westlands region; Kibagare United and Leeds United while 12 teams will square it out in the preliminaries. Rysa FC versus GuzaGuza FC, Zion Family will face University of Nairobi FC (CAVS), Vision FC versus NYSA, Kabete United will take on Kipande Road FC, Bufallo FC versus Shamako Babes while Green Eagles will face off with WYSA FC.

Kasarani

Six teams will not feature in the opening stages; Githurai Sportiff, Metro FC, Githurai United, Riverside Lions, Babadogo FC and Babadogo Youth while four teams will play in the preliminaries; St Johns versus Lucky Summer while Search and Groom FC will take QDep FC.

Kamukunji

No byes were given in Kamukunji region, 16 teams will square it out in the Round of 16.

ShauriMoyo United will take on Daring Club, Pumwani All Stars versus ShauriMoyo Blue Stars, WazeePembe FC versus F.A VAP, State Rangers versus Kinyago United, Biafra Amazon versus Angola FC, Borrusia Dortmund vs Wigu, Corinthians versus Kiambio while Mahende FC while face Wenyeji.

Makadara

Four teams were given byes from Makadara; Baha United, Mborewa, A 1000 Street and Magic 90 while eight teams will face off in the preliminaries;

Gas Ghettos vs Radar Hotspurs

Rigo Santos vs Nairobees

Reading FC vs Hamza Heroes

Masa FC vs Eastlanders FC

Starehe

Technical University, Ziwani, Champs FC, Park Road FC, Kiamaiko City and Young Kings were given byes while four teams will play in the preliminaries.

Umeme Bees vs Mathare Celtic

Intact FC vs MlangoKubwa

Langata

Only one team, Toy Market FC got a bye while six teams will square it out in the preliminary stage matches.

Diguna FC vs Makina Youth Club

Elite Soccer Academy vs More Fire Sonia FC

RongaiAllStars vs Ajax

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 3 – Football Kenya Federation (FKF) vice-president, Robert Asembo, was forced to take to his heels and flee for dear life in the precincts of Nairobi’s Milimani High Court on Tuesday to escape the wrath of irate fans baying for his blood as domestic football wars took a violent turn.

Drama unfolded when Asembo, a practising lawyer, instructed his learned friend Eric Mutua who is holding brief for the federation in a civil suit filed against their Kenyan Premier League (KPL) rivals to decline his suspended predecessor, Sammy Sholei and former Nairobi Delegate, Dan Shikanda to be enjoined in the case as interested parties.

Civil Division judge, Justice Aburili adjourned the hearing to Thursday, giving FKF and KPL 48 hours to thrash out an out of court settlement to their dispute which has brought two parallel premier leagues in the country.

Fans that flocked the courtroom were disappointed with the judge’s ruling and soon gathered along the corridors forcing Asembo to seek police escort when it became apparent he was a target of their wrath.

However, he found another group laying in wait at the court entrance, forcing him to break into a sprint for his life and out of the premises through the parking gate where he hopped into his car and revved off to safety in the busy Nairobi traffic.

“No way! We can’t allow football to be run in a court. There are players who depend on it for a living. Why are they postponing the case to Thursday? We wanted everything to be cleared today if at all they were ready,” one of the enraged fans shouted.

“There is no direction in football management, our football standards have gone down but the most important thing there will be no league that will run. We can’t allow one league to run yet the other is stopped,” another declared.

Gor Mahia’s loyal supporter Pastor Sudi Jayimbo weighed in, “This issue is heartbreaking, we are suffering as fans and the players too, where are we heading as a nation? I urge the Government to take over and streamline football in the country because both FKF and KPL have failed to solve the wrangles.”

-Only in Kenya-

Two weeks ago Harambee Stars and Tusker FC defender James Situma wrote on his Facebook account… “Only in Kenya when born a football player turns out suicidal, celebrity on the screen and poverty always at your door step.”

Justice Aburili gave both parties 15 minutes to deliberate on breaking the deadlock in camera and when Mutua and Geoffrey Obura for KPL could not come to agreement, the hearing proceeded.

It was adjourned when the Judge determined four issues on the table, FKF’s injunction against KPL running their league, KPL’s responding affidavit, KPL’s contravention of a court order stopping their competition and enjoining Sholei and Shikanda in the suit will be heard on Thursday if the parties do not agree to resolve the matter.

Mid February, another showdown meeting directed by Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Hassan Wario, at a Nairobi hotel collapsed when KPL pulled out citing FKF’s attempt to force the 18-team league agenda through a vote by capitalising on their numerical advantage on the day.

It remains to be seen whether the two bodies will heed Justice Aburili’s sensible call to dialogue having taken hardliner positions since the dispute over the league erupted last November with the prospect of court action more likely.

World governing body Fifa and Government have remained studiously quiet thus far on the stand-off that sees KPL’s league suspended and 14 lower division sides promoted to play in the FKF PL in what will irreparably damage the country’s football if not checked as it plays out in the corridors of justice.

Players who had given both parties a week to iron out their differences or face strike action across both leagues are awaiting Thursday’s developments to chart the next course of action, their spokesperson, Wilson Obungu, told Capital Sport.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 4 – The wheels of justice will turn in the long-standing Football Kenya Federation and Kenyan Premier League stand-off at the High Court on Thursday after both parties failed to agree on resolving the stalemate amicably.

On Tuesday, Civil division Judge Justice Aburili gave the warring factions 48 hours to find a solution to the impasse that had resulted to parallel leagues but talks collapsed once again even after both parties met at a Nairobi hotel for more than four hours.

“There is nothing that came out of yesterday’s meeting so the court will decide. We have tried our best to reason together but it didn’t work out so let’s meet in court,” KPL CEO Jack Oguda confirmed to Capital Sport Wednesday.

The judge was told KPL officials without colour proceeded to conduct the premier league matches when they are quite aware of the orders restraining them.

Consequently KPL leaders Ambrose Rachier, Allan Kasavuli, Elly Kulekwa, James Musyoki, Bob Munro, Jack Oguda and Col Juma Munyikai will be required to appear in court when the application for contempt comes up for hearing next week.

However an attempt by former FKF vice-president Sammy Shollei and Nairobi Representative Dan Shikanda seeking to be enjoined in the dispute was disallowed, until their application rejoinder is argued fully and the court makes decision.

FKF lawyer Eric Mutua strongly opposed the two from being made to the proceeding on grounds that they duo had been banned from taking part in the management of football for six by federation.

Mutua told the court he needs time to file documents to show that two cannot be enjoined the civil suit.

The application to embattled former officials of FKF will be argued on Thursday.

Justice Aburili urged the parties in the dispute to continue discussing in a view of arriving at amicable resolution to solve the wrangles.

The judge observed that for the interest of country there is need for parties to agree the way forward.

The court extended the order halting KPL from conducting leagues matches until the dispute is heard.

FKF had moved to court through its president Sam Nyamweya and obtained orders restraining the company from hosting or managing a parallel premier league.

The restraining order was issued by Justice Mbogholi Msagha he directed that same be served upon respondents.

KPL attempted to lift the orders on grounds that there was material non-disclosure and misrepresentation and their application will be argued next week.

The last meeting between both parties mid last month at a Nairobi hotel ended in acrimony when KPL walked out of talks claiming FKF were intent on using their numerical advantage to force their chosen 18-team league format through a vote.

KPL who insist on having a 16-team format went on to play their opening round of the 2015 KPL before they suspended the competition indefinitely pending determination of the ongoing civil suit.

The FKF PL has kicked off proper last weekend after the federation promoted 14 Nationwide Super League sides to take the place of the KPL teams that failed to meet their deadline to register with them.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 4 – AFC Leopards is still in one piece and raring to reclaim their place at the apex of Kenyan football.

This was the message from The Den on Wednesday after striking players resumed training and even beat Talanta FC 1-0 in a friendly in the afternoon.

After a period of uncertainty with rumoured defection to the rival Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League and other reports alleging the team had split into three entities, head coach Zradvko Logarusic declared they were ready to maul the competition once the suspended Kenyan Premier League (KPL) resumes.

“We are still adapting and we need a bit more time in training and that’s the reason we are playing friendly matches to enable us identify our mistakes. So much has changed since I left but it’s a new beginning.

“Kenyan football is becoming better and competitive because we have four clubs chasing the title. I can’t wait for the derby against Gor Mahia I hope we will be ready by then,” Logarusic who guided Gor to 2012 GOtv Shield and KPL runners up told Capital Sport after the friendly win at Kasarani Stadium.

Logarusic, who settled for a barren draw against Chemelil Sugar on his debut in the team’s KPL opener declared that he will be going for the treble including guiding the team to their first league title in 17 years.

His assistant Yussuf Chippo who has been with the team since the beginning of the season, said they are scheduled to play more build up matches since they are behind schedule.

“It was a major setback after the players went on strike but I’m impressed from what I have seen today. Playing more matches will enable us assess our players ahead of the premier league.

“The boys played very well in our league match against Chemelil bearing in mind we started pre-season late after a long time layoff compared to other teams who started training early so this is our starting lane,” Chippo expressed.

Leopards journey of reviving up for good performance after last season’s trophy-less debacle faced stumbling blocks after players threw their pre-season into a spin, in a series of go slows, demanding unpaid salary and bonus arrears.

Things turned worse last week when the players boycotted training over three month arrears only to rescind their decision after negotiating with management.

“We have financial problems but as a technical bench and players we met with the management and agreed so the ball is in their court we will continue playing our part in the field. I promise you will not hear the players going on strike,” club Team Manager Willis Waliaula told Capital Sport.

Even as a full house Leopards beat Talanta FC who feature in the parallel FKF PL, club chairman Allan Kasavuli maintained the team has not defected and rubbished reports that they had three different teams.

“We are a KPL club so there is no way that we will play in other league we are just waiting for the stalemate to end. Someone is playing politics with club but what they should know is that AFC is dully registered under society like any other club.

“So the likes of Mathews Opwora who are claiming to run the team should wait next year to vie for the seat but not to distract our plans,” Kasavuli declared.

Meanwhile midfielder Bernard Mang’oli is back at the club after talks with Posta Rangers collapsed.

NAIROBI, March 5- The High Court has extended the injunction against Kenyan Premier League to March 13 when Lady Justice Aburili will rule on the pending applications tied to the civil suit filed by Football Kenya Federation.

Both parties have until Monday to submit written applications arguing their case while the enjoinment ruling of suspended FKF vice-president, Sammy Shollei and Nairobi Delegate, Dan Shikanda will be delivered Friday.

Over 100 fans parked Nairobi’s Milimani High Court room 208 Thursday to listen to proceedings as the wheels of justice started turning to resolve the football crisis over the composition of this season’s Premier League after FKF and KPL once again failed to thrash an agreement within the 48 hours given by Justice Aburili on Tuesday.

“Since both parties failed to settle the matter out of court, we will proceed on hearing the applications that I hope we will end this matter today because all these people here in court are eagerly waiting for the decision,” the judge said when he mentioned the case.

There was drama outside the court once again when fans dressed in AFC Leopards jerseys accosted KPL CEO, Jack Oguda, chanting “Oguda, you have spoiled our football!” before walking away without further incident.

“The federation must be respected, all clubs elected the federation and we don’t want to interfere with the federation, KPL must be submissive to federation. Oguda must go!” one of the fans who confronted the KPL CEO who was unperturbed as he walked out of the courtroom shouted.

After being chased out of the same facility on Tuesday where he was forced to run for dear life, FKF vice-president, Robert Asembo, came armed with his band of youth and told the press after the case was adjourned, “we have left the decision to the court.”

“The endeavor by Fifa and Government urging us to talk has not materialised so the court is there as a neutral arbitrator on issues which parties cannot agree. The court has demonstrated there is going to be an expeditious disposal of this matter and it’s in our interest to have it well sorted out.

“This country has come to a time where the rule of law must be respected, so if you are within the law you have nothing to worry. Some players and coaches are affected others are not because we have played FKF Premier League matches,” Asembo who had walked out of the court building before coming back with youths who urged him to address the press declared.

On his part Oguda said, “We respect law and we will obey today’s direction by the judge as we wait the ruling of our pending cases on (March) 13th.”

The civil division judge said the issue of contempt of court against KPL could not be ruled since she had to retire and deliberate on the matter with the league management company accused of defying the original injunction granted by Justice Mbogholi Msagha on February 26 by playing their first round of 2015 fixtures on the weekend of February 27 and 28.

FKF lawyer Eric Mutua told the court Oguda, his chairman Ambrose Rachier, Tusker FC chairman James Musyoki, Ulinzi Stars Col. J.S Mwinyikai, Mathare United’s Bob Munro, AFC Leopards’ Allan Kasavuli and Sofapaka’s Elly Kalekwa be committed to six month civil jail for contempt of court.

“Oguda was served injunction on 20th of this month (February) at 5:30pm and declined to stamp the original order. The second defendant who is Kenya Football Referees Association was served by Pius Oyoo at City Stadium the following day.”

KPL lawyer Geoffrey Obura persuaded court to dismiss the application since there was no evidence that the accused received the injunction.

“The court cannot punish anyone because prove of contempt is beyond reasonable doubt. My client (Oguda) left office by 5:30pm and he did not see anyone serving him with the court order neither did the guard Peter Barasa who filed an affidavit.”

Justice Aburili began hearing the enjoinment case filed by Shollei and Shikanda who are seeking to be attached as interested parties in the hope they will get an explanation why they were banned from football leadership for six years after falling out with FKF president, Sam Nyamweya.

“By allowing the two to participate, the court will not only continue assisting them violate the ban but will also interfere with another court that suspended them,” Mutua argued.

Sholei and Shikanda lawyer Hellen Ngesa replied; “The two deserve to be included as interested parties because they are involved in nurturing talent.”

“We shall wait and hear the ruling then from there we will plan our next step,” Shikanda stated.

Earlier, FKF’s lawyer, Mutua submitted the two feuding parties at the centre of the suit had only agreed on one of four contentious issues pulling them apart – that of change of name from KPL Premier League to FKF Premier League which is in accordance to Fifa statutes.

On March 13, Justice Aburili will give direction on contempt of court proceedings, KPL’s responding affidavit and injunction orders in that order.

Among those who expressed disappointment on the  impasse are former Gor Mahia player Ken Oliech and former national team Under-20 head coach, Bob Oyugi.

“It’s pathetic; it’s not something that we can discuss and it’s all about mismanaged somebody should come and save us. Players are suffering since they are in the dark,” Oyugi told Capital Sport.

“The interest of players is not catered for as both sides continue fighting in court. I see another ban coming. We have to do something about our football management.

“During my time there were two leagues and it wasn’t good at all since Gor and AFC Leopards were in different leagues so there was no competition,” Ken who is the elder brother of former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech underscored.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 10 –Gor Mahia midfielder Khalid Aucho and centre half Dirkir Glay have recovered from knocks as head coach Frank Nuttall hopes to have a full house for Sunday’s CAF Champions League tie against Congo Brazzaville’s AC Leopards at Nyayo National Stadium.

The two key players sustained hamstring strains in their barren draw friendly against fellow Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Ulinzi Stars with Ugandan Aucho forced out in the first half.

Nuttall who led his charges to a second successive draw in their Tuesday build up match, this time round settling for a 1-1 stalemate against Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Posta Rangers, said the team is in high spirits ahead of the first round home leg.

“Preparations are going on well since we are overcoming few knocks and everybody is focused. Aucho and Glay trained today (Tuesday) so we will see how they will react over the next 24 hours.

“Their injuries were not major so hopefully we will have full squad to select from,” Nuttall who relocated the team’s training from City Stadium to Nyayo declared.

K’Ogalo new signing Zachariah Taofiq put the KPL champions ahead in the second half before Rangers who are under the tutelage of former Thika United head coach; John Kamau, equalised through Patrick Karuri.

“It was a useful match for players who were unable to take part in last weekend’s match and those who will play on Sunday. Jerim Onyango is doing fine and he had a chance to play 90minutes today after being sidelines for long,” the coach who fielded a changed side from the one against Ulinzi added.

Gor who eliminated Madagascar’s CNaPS on away goals rule, following a 3-3 aggregate draw to qualify for the first round will be seeking to reach the second stage for the first time over three decades.

“I dwell on present and future but not on history. We have to take the game on and work very hard because it’s going to be a tough challenge but overall we have to try and win the tie since we have the home advantage.”

AC Leopards, the 2012 CAF Confederations Cup winners are expected in the country by Friday on a charted flight.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 13 – Kenyan Premier League (KPL) top officials have been acquitted of contempt of court charges.

The High Court on Friday afternoon ruled that there was no evidence that KPL was served with the order barring it from organising league matches.

Nairobi’s Milimani High Court Lady Justice Roseline Aburili, found KPL CEO Jack Oguda, his chairman Ambrose Rachier, Tusker FC’s James Musyoki, Mathare United’s Bob Munro, Ulinzi Stars’ Col. Mwinyikai Juma, AFC Leopards’ Allan Kasavuli and Sofapaka’s Elly Kalekwa not guilty of the charges.

“This court having found that there was no service of knowledge of the injunction upon the respondents and that there was selective justice inciting them for contempt.

“They were not in disobedient of the court order and therefore, I decline to grant the order sort by plaintiff applicant seeking to have them jailed and the said motion is accordingly dismissed and the respondents are found not guilty. I order that each party bares their own cost of this application,” the Lady Justice ruled.

Speaking moments after the ruling, Oguda who was the only respondent in court declared the judge’s direction was a relief since he was innocent.

“The ruling today was in our favour because we confirmed that we did not receive the injunction and as KPL we respect the rule of law and that’s why we have not held any matches since then. We now hope the court will lift the court order so that we can go to the field,” the delighted chief executive stated outside the courthouse.

The ruling spared the seven, seen as key decision makers in the KPL Governing Council, six months in civil jail after the federation rushed to court on February 25 seeking to have them locked up in the continuing supremacy battle against their rivals.

However, over 100 football enthusiasts who jam packed the courtroom will miss the league for the third week after Justice Aburili extended the order stopping KPL from running its 2015 Premier League to Monday ,when she will make a ruling on the application to have it lifted.

Curiously, FKF vice president Robert Asembo and their lawyer Eric Mutua were conspicuously absent with the latter sending a junior attorney.

Suspended FKF officials, former vice president Sammy Shollei and Nairobi delegate Dan Shikanda who were enjoined in the suit attended the hearing but they will be heard next week.

Aburili, who demanded written applications from both parties after they failed to settle the matter out of court, said FKF’s contempt charges had ill motive since it discriminated KPL officials despite the injunction also addressing Kenya Football Referees Association and Sports Kenya.

“The question that begs answers from this court is what criteria did the plaintiff use to seek the said directors to be cited of contempt to the exclusion of the other two defendants officials bearing in mind the match cannot be held without referees or the facility.

“The process server is in question since it’s not clear whether the recipient Mr Oguda received the order at 5:30pm. I have found that the process server picked the injunction at 5:30pm so there is no way the recipient could receive the order at the said time,” the lady justice ruled.

NAIROBI, March 15- Gor Mahia’s hopes of progressing past the first round of the CAF Champions League hang by a thread after conceding a damaging 1-0 home defeat to visiting AC Leopards of Congo in their opening leg clash at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.

Cesair Gandze struck a dipping shot from his weaker left foot on the 49th minute for the winner and crucial away goal following a defensive mix up between Musa Mohammed and Timothy Otieno to leave K’Ogalo staring at a second successive elimination at the round of 32 ahead of the second leg in Congo Brazzavile.

“We are still in the tie and gave them a fright in the opening minutes and I cannot blame my players since apart from that one lapse in concentration, they gave their all,” Gor coach, Frank Nuttall said after the match.

The home side fashioned two scoring chances inside the first ten minutes with the lively Michael Olunga forcing keeper Chancel Massa to a scrambling save at his near post with eight gone in a barnstorming start in front of a partisan crowd.

From the resultant corner, Liberian defender, Dirkir Glay headed onto the crossbar as AC Leopards from an Olunga knock down with Massa beaten all hands up.

That was as good as it got for Gor who looked laden from lack of match sharpness following the suspension of their Kenyan Premier League from an injunction obtained by Football Kenya Federation that ran into the third weekend in the ongoing football crisis in the country.

Having opted to bypass the midfield where Gor were enjoying dominance, AC Leopards weathered the early storm and began forcing the game to the home side.

They came close to the opener in the 34th when Makkiese looped the ball over the advancing Boniface Oluoch in goal but the ball tricked few inches past the inside of the right post after he snapped the offside trap.

Leopards went even closer when they hit the crossbar from a header that had Olouch scrambling as Mohammed hacked the rebound clear from the line.

It took only four minutes after the break for Leopards to fashion the victory when Gandze set himself up and unloaded a dipping left foot shot when the ball bobbled between Mohammed and Ochieng who had all the time to clear their lines in a moment of hesitation that cost their side.

Gor could not respond as Leopards sunk deeper in defence and at the final whistle, the 2012 Confederation Cup winners went home happier with the advantage.

NAIROBI, March 17- Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has revisited its proposal to have a two-tier Premier League involving clubs affiliated to them and those playing under the Kenyan Premier League banner to resolve the impasse on the 2015 top flight.

In a letter addressed to KPL chairman, Ambrose Rachier signed by federation boss, Sam Nyamweya marked; ‘Without Prejudice’ FKF revisited their earlier proposal in the aftermath of the judgement by Lady Justice Roselyn Aburili that lifted an injunction on the league organising body on Monday.

“Whereas past efforts to negotiate our way through the impasse has yielded little results, the federation hereby once again wish to pursue another opportunity to resolve the question of the premier league as guided by the ruling of the court which gave a chance for settlement of the matter out of court,” Nyamweya stated.

He gave KPL a Tuesday deadline to respond to their proposals although he did not state what further action FKF would take if their rivals reject their latest overtures.

In a swift rejoinder, the addressee Rachier poured cold water on the proposals being an amicable way forward to find a lasting solution pointing out Nyamweya triggered the crisis when he announced plans to establish an 18 team top flight at the end of last season without exhaustive consultations and agreement.

“How does someone give you an ultimatum yet he wants the matter to be resolved? From the recommendation of the court, people go to the table to discuss the matter but not to issue ultimatums.

“Nyamweya started this issue of the so called 18 team league and he does not know what to do now since the injunction has been lifted because we must go on with our league,” the KPL chief who is also the Gor chairman told Capital Sport.

Nyamweya has moved four proposals to defuse the crisis that sparked off last November when he announced plans of expanding the league to 18 teams before the national body and KPL broke ranks late January leading to the onset of parallel leagues.

• In compliance with Article 10 (1) of the FKF Constitution, there shall be one Premier League known as FKF Premier League, a matter agreed by all parties concerned.
• The FKF Premier League shall comprise two zones, A and B, with teams promoted from the National Super League constituting Zone B, while those that previously participated in the KPL Limited-run league shall participate in Zone A of the league.
• At the end of the season, the two top teams from either zone shall play a round robin mini-league to determine the champion. The remaining teams shall participate in a one-off play-off to get those that remain in the league with the losers facing relegation to the National Super League.
• Two teams shall then be promoted to complete an 18-team league from next season.

“This, in our considered opinion, is the best solution that gives the way forward which accommodates everyone because we find ourselves in a very unique situation and one that we must manage well to ensure club’s interests are given due priority,” the federation chief continued.

The letter is silent on some key aspects of their dispute notably; how television revenue and contracts they entered with South African pay television channel, SuperSport and title sponsors, East Africa Breweries through their Tusker brand will be divided among 34 clubs that will vie in the two-zone competition should the league management body accede to it.

It was at the height of the dispute that FKF promoted a record 14 clubs to the top tier and sought an injunction against their rivals that saw their league suspended for three weeks.

Already, KPL have brought back Nairobi City Stars and Nakuru Top Fry who were relegated last season to fill their contingent of 16 after failing to agree with the federation on which two teams from the Super League to take up their places.

Having rejected these proposals a fortnight ago when Justice Aburuli gave them 48 hours to thrash out a settlement before she started ruling on the civil case brought by FKF against KPL, the league organising body has once again indicated they will not close ranks with the national governing body.

Nyamweya’s letter could therefore, end up being another failed move to entrench his wishes down the throats of KPL who feel they have the goodwill and financial clout to whether any attempts against running their competition in accordance to the structures they established eight years ago when they came into existence.

FKF were granted right of appeal by Justice Aburuli while their civil case was stayed with top officials ordered to be plaintiffs in their individual capacity as opposed to using the federation as a registered society to sue KPL.

NAIROBI, March 17- CAF Champions League participants Gor Mahia face Bandari at City Stadium on Thursday from 4pm local time in a re-scheduled Kenyan Premier League match that marks the resumption of top flight club football action following three weeks of inactivity brought about by a court injunction.

Gor and Bandari registered impressive wins in their opening KPL fixtures on the weekend of February 21 and 22.

While a rebuilt and confident Bandari were crushing visiting Muhoroni Youth 3-1 at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa, reigning league champions Gor Mahia were thrashing Mathare United 4-2 at City Stadium in Nairobi.

A full set of eight fixtures will be played over the weekend and will also involve Nakuru All Stars and City Stars, who were relegated last season, but have, following a decision by the KPL Governing Council, been included in the league to make 16 teams.

The High Court on Monday lifted an injunction obtained by Football Kenya Federation on February 20 stopping KPL from running the league.

Fixtures

Thursday – Gor Mahia v Bandari (4pm City Stadium).

Saturday – Ulinzi Stars v Western Stima (3pm Afraha Stadium), KCB v Nakuru All Stars (2pm Nyayo Stadium), City Stars v AFC Leopards (4.15pm Nyayo Stadium), Thika United v Mathare United (3pm Thika County Stadium).

Sunday – Tusker v Ushuru (2pm Nyayo Stadium), Gor Mahia v Chemelil Sugar (4.15pm Nyayo Stadium), Sony Sugar v Muhoroni Youth (3pm Awendo Green Stadium), Sofapaka v Bandari (3pm Kenyatta Stadium).

-By KPL

NAIROBI, March 17- Having turned to ordinary courts to rubber stamp their position as bonafide managers of football in the country, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is at crossroads.

This comes after a High Court in Nairobi handed its rival, Kenyan Premier League (KPL), a crushing victory on Monday by lifting an injunction to their competition.

Civil judge Lady Justice Roselyn Aburili ruled there were no sufficient grounds to stop KPL from running their Premier League that was declared invalid by the federation that kicked off its own 18-team FKF Premier League last month as the sanctioned top flight competition in the country.

For three weeks, 14 clubs that constituted Kenya’s top tier club competition last season could not kick a ball after FKF obtained an injunction against KPL on Feb. 20 that was properly served on the league management body three days later.

Following the verdict, FKF released a three-paragraph statement later Monday that lacked customary force and authority announcing they were weighing options about their next move.

“Arising from the Ruling, the Federation is satisfied that the case is still on course and the substance thereon was not dismissed by the Court,” said the national governing body. “We can confirm that our lawyers are studying the Ruling with a view to preparing grounds for the next course of action.”

KPL were quick to announce a resumption of their suspended programme starting Thursday to make up for lost time.

“KPL can now continue. The injunction had affected the clubs, the players and indeed the football industry. We appreciate the support we have received from all our friends and the media. Top flight football can now continue,” said the league organising body CEO Jack Oguda.

-Major Setbacks-

Monday’s ruling was the third major setback for FKF in their civil suit against the league organisers that now finds itself scrambling to gain a foothold in the ongoing power play over control of the lucrative top flight, the only arm of Kenyan football that has grown over the past decade with title and broadcast sponsors in place.

Exactly a week earlier, Lady Justice Aburili allowed two former FKF officials, Vice-president Sammy Shollei and Nairobi Delegate, Dan Shikanda, who were suspended from football activity for going to court, enjoined in the suit as interested parties.

<!–nextpage–>This allowed them a route back to the game as they sought answers to why they were kicked out for the same action the governing body had taken in turning to corridors of justice to settle a dispute.

Last Friday, the same judge set free seven top KPL officials who had been sued for contempt of court for organising matches on the weekend of Feb. 21 and 22, ruling the federation did not serve them the High Court order granted by another Judge, Mbogholi Msanga on Feb. 20 in good time to stop the competition.

In her verdict, Lady Justice Aburili faulted the federation’s plea for singling out the seven, namely; KPL CEO, Oguda alongside club chairmen, Ambrose Rachier (Gor Mahia), Allan Kasavuli (AFC Leopards), Elly Kalekwa (Sofapaka), Colonel J Mwinyikai (Ulinzi Stars), Bob Munro (Mathare United) and Joe Musyoki (Tusker FC).

After Monday’s outcome, FKF was left clutching at their civil case against KPL where the judge ruled they were free to continue as long as they do not use the federation’s name as an institution to enter litigation since Kenya’s laws bar registered societies into entering such suits.

Lady Justice Aburili, however, granted the federation right of appeal.

-Loss Of Legitimacy-

The case and by large the football standoff that sparked off last November when FKF announced the expansion of the top flight to 18 teams against KPL’s stand of a 16-side competition has dominated local mainstream and social media.

Majority of public opinion has swung against the federation and its president, Sam Nyamweya, who holds instruments of power without financial clout and goodwill to exercise it.

This is despite a well organised propaganda campaign funded and fuelled by the federation in sections of print and electronic media that has consistently churned out falsehoods, including allegations of falsified letters sent by world governing body FIFA supporting their stand.

FIFA headquarters in Zurich has maintained they should look for an amicable solution to the crisis with KPL, a call supported by Lady Justice Aburuli who gave both parties the freedom to reach an out of court settlement.<!–nextpage–>

Nevertheless, previous face to face talks to unlock the impasse have collapsed in acrimony, notably in mid February when the country’s Cabinet Secretary for Sport, Hassan Wario, and a fortnight ago, Lady Justice Aburili gave them 48 hours to defuse the crisis to no avail.

- Fifa Action-

With the dispute going to ordinary courts, government weighing in albeit subtlety and the existence of two parallel leagues all flying against FIFA statutes. Kenya’s crisis has persisted with almost passive intervention from the usually forceful world governing body.

“Throughout the past weeks, FIFA has sent letters to both the FKF and KPL in order to remind them of the relevant rules and provisions included in the FIFA statutes and offer the necessary support to solve the ongoing issue. We are currently monitoring the matter and can’t make further comments for the time being,” a FIFA spokesperson quoted by Insideworldfootball said on March 7.

In late December, FIFA sent three representatives led by former head of German Bundesliga chief, Robert Niemann, Development Officer in charge of East and South Africa, Ashford Mamelodi, and James Johnson flew in to mediate talks, but FKF trashed their recommendations once they backed the 16-team format, saying they had “overstepped their mandate.”

With the civil case, FKF may re-group and opt to pursue their suit, which is likely to take months or years to reach a resolution. Direct FIFA intervention is perhaps the only route to enforce a rapid end to the stalemate with two parallel topflight competitions.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 24 – AFC Leopards head coach, Zdravko Logarusic says the team needs more time to adapt into his philosophy since they began their pre-season late.

Logarusic who joined the Den three days before they opened their Kenyan Premier League (KPL) campaign against Chemelil Sugar, declared the club is paying it price for having a shambolic pre-season compared to their competitors who had a seven-week long preparation ahead of the 2015 season.

Leopards journey of reviving up for good performance after last season’s trophy-less debacle faced stumbling blocks after players threw their pre-season into a spin, in a series of go slows, demanding unpaid salary and bonus arrears.

“We have had little time of training compared to others who started early, most of the players only had three weeks preparation at most so this means we are still in pre-season but it’s for our advantage because those clubs that started early can get fatigue.

“We are still far and need to do more since payers are missing some simple tactical techniques. With the squad that I have and maybe add few during mid-season, we will be there,” Logarusic who settled for a barren draw in his first assignment against Chemelil Sugar stated.

The Croatian who rubbished claims that he boycotted Monday’s training due to unpaid arrears urged his charges not to underrate wounded Nakuru All Stars, when the two sides clash in Wednesday’s KPL fixture.

“We didn’t play well against Chemelil; the work rate of some players was low and the defence was not solid. There was no connection between midfielders and strikers but we will work on them and be ready for our next match.

“We have to take one match at a time and the worst we can do is to undervalue All Stars because they lost 6-2 to KCB. We have fresh boys who did not play against City Stars who we intend to use,” Logarusic who led Gor Mahia to 2012 GOtv Shield and KPL runner-ups underscored.

Commenting on financial challenges that faces the club, 54-year-old Logarusic who had stints with Tanzanian giants, Simba SC said,

“It’s not easy but I take it as a challenge because its upon us to fix the problem and step by step I believe we will be heading to the right direction.”

The management of the club is yet to settle two month salary and bonus arrears of the team but assistant secretary general, Asava Kadima told Capital Sport the debt will be cleared soon.

“We are working tirelessly to see that the club is financially stable and the team is very cooperative. Our coach (Logarusic) did not boycott yesterday’s training as reported, he and goal keeper trainer Iddi Salim requested for a day off as assistant coach Yusuff Chippo was in charge,” Kadima underscored.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 25 –Kenyan Premier League (KPL) has announced a 7.14 percent annual grant increment to clubs participating in the league.

In a statement published by KPL official website, by the end of this season the 16 clubs participating in the top tier league will have received grants of Sh7.5m (USD 81,745) each from the league body.

The increment comes courtesy of the SuperSport broadcast rights deal and Tusker naming rights partnership with KPL.

In total, KPL will disburse Sh120m (USD 1,307,923) to the clubs this season compared to Sh112 m (USD 1,220,728) last season.

The winner of the league title will earn a prize money of Sh4.5m (USD 49,047) up from the previous Sh4m (43,597), runner-ups will receive Sh2m (USD 21,799), while Sh1.5m (USD 16,349) with go towards third finisher as fourth team pockets Sh1m (USD 10,899).

Clubs are also entitled to grants by final rank in amounts according to how the teams are placed at the final league table with the top finisher getting the most and the basement side the least.

The top ranked team will receive Sh705, 920, second ranked will take home Sh661, 800 while third team will earn Sh617, 680.

This means the 2015 KPL champions will pocket a whopping total amount of Sh12.2 m (USD 132,972) from the league body.

The match officials officiating fees has been budgeted for Sh11.9m (USD129, 702) up from last year’s Sh10.9m (USD 118,803) that is an increase of 15 per cent both on the match fees and the travel allowances.

KPL grants per club over the years:

2008: Sh1.4 million

2009: Sh2.1 million

2010: Sh2.6 million

2011: Sh4 million

2012: Sh5.6 million

2013: Sh6.5 million

2014: Sh7 million

2015: Sh7.5 million

-material used to compile story from KPL official website-

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 24 – Burundian midfielder, Emmanuel Ngama notched a brace as AFC Leopards beat Nakuru All Stars 3-1 to register their second successive Kenyan Premier League win in a floodlight encounter played at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on Wednesday night.

Ngama who joined Leopards this season on loan from Uganda Revenue Authority, opened his account after six minutes of play before William Ochieng restored parity four minutes later.

Ngama however, reclaimed the lead 13 minutes later, before Jacob Keli scored his second goal of the season and the third for Leopards who climbed third on seven points behind Bandari who have scored more goals but have played a game more and two behind arch rivals and leaders Gor Mahia.

At Nairobi’s Ruaraka Grounds, it was a sigh of relief for Tusker FC head coach Francis Kimanzi, who chalked his first win of the season after gunning down Ulinzi Stars 2-1.

In Mombasa, Bandari rallied a goal down to beat visiting KCB 3-1in a match that David King’atua netted his debut goal for the Dockers before George Abege and Juma Masaud completed the rout.

Raymond Murugi scored the consolation for the Bankers who entered the match boosted by their 6-2 triumph over All Stars.

Western Stima were 2-1 winners over Nairobi City Stars, despite finishing 10-men after Baron Oketch was sent off at Moi’s Kisumu Stadium for retaliation against Arthur Museve.

Hedmond Mauda grabbed a brace while Duncan Makori scored the only goal for the Kawangware based side that remains rooted at the bottom winless.

-Second successive win-

Leopards head coach Zdravko Logarusic made three changes from the quad that beat City Stars 1-0 with Keli, Austin Ikenna and Ezekiel Seda returning to the starting line-up replacing Duncan Otieno, Diallo Lamine and Karim Ndugwa who were dropped to the bench.

Keli’s inclusion in the first XI paid for the Croatian with the 2013 Golden Boot winner setting Ngama for the opener but the lead did not last long as the visitors leveled through Ochieng’s spot kick after Jackson Saleh hacked Carlson Mweresa in the box.

Ngama made sure Ingwe took control of the game when he reclaimed the lead in the 19th with a cracker that beat All Stars keeper, Martin Lule before Keli who scored the winner against City Stars nailing the final nail in the coffin when he made good use of Ngama’s square pass on the 24th.

There was less action in the second half with none of the sides finding the back of the net, even as All Stars came close through Hillary Echesa’s header that missed the target by inches after substitute Boniface Akenga brought in the cross.

-Tusker’s first win-

After going two matches winless, Tusker shrugged off their slow start after left-back Aboud Omar and Jesse Were found the target as Oscar Wamalwa pulled one back for the Soldiers in the dying minutes.

The Brewers who entered the encounter from a 1-0 loss to Ushuru showed their intend to bounce back went for early goals and after several unsuccessful attempts, the opening goal came in the 35th through Omar who utilized Jockins Atudo’s cross to find space and shoot past Ulinzi keeper James Saruni.

Kimanzi charges who dominated the first period continued raiding Ulinzi’s defence and four minutes to the break Brian Osumba almost doubled the lead when he was set through for a one on one with situation with Saruni but the latter repelled the cracker for a fruitless corner.

It only took two minutes for Were to launch his goal hunt, when he doubled the lead after Kevin Kimani started the build-up from a thrown in to feed the 2013 Golden Boot runner-ups who in turn put the ball beyond Saruni’s reach.

Ulinzi soldiered on despite trailing two goals with John Nairuka breaking Tusker’s defence but unfortunately could not find the target as the second half became an end to end affair.

In the 85th, the Military side survived a scare when Geoffrey Kokoyo nearly gifted Tusker the third from an own goal only to see his back pass rolled across the goalmouth.

With three minutes added before the final whistle, Wamalwa took advantage of the confusion in Brewer’s defence to slot the consolation goal.

Elsewhere, Mathare United were held to a 1-1 draw by visiting 10-men Chemelil Sugar in a match that Stephen Wakanya was sent-off for a second bookable offense.

Eric Mata struck first for the Slum boys after heading home Eric Johana’s corner but Collins Kisuya cancelled the lead from a free-kick.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 26 – Cash strapped AFC Leopards on Thursday announced they are planning for a fundraising mid April to enable the club conduct its affairs, after shirt sponsor Mumias Sugar suspended their funding for three months.

Club assistant secretary general, Professor Asava Kadima confirmed to Capital Sport, they received notice from the Sugar Company that has been facing financial constraints since the beginning of last year.

Mumias Marketing and Corporate Affairs Director, Margret Makhungu told SuperSport.com the company is experiencing financial difficulties that had made it difficult to finance non core functions that were previously undertaken by the firm.

“We are experiencing some troubling moments that have made us make key decisions on sponsorships. Sponsoring football is not a core function of the company. For now we are reviewing our contract with the club.”

The decision came at a time the Den has been invaded by problems, where the technical bench and playing unit are yet to received their two month salary and bonus arrears, a result that saw the players paralyze their pre-season after going on strike on several occasions.

“Yes Mumias has informed us they will put our sponsorship on hold for three months because their cash flow is not stable but we are optimistic the partnership will resume soon. They are still our shirt sponsor since we have not terminated the contract.

“They haven’t released the salary and bonuses for the past two months and that’s why we are setting up plans to hold a fundraising as we search for other avenues,” Kadima declared.

The decision by Mumias comes just two months after the company had reaffirmed their commitment to the club.

In January, the company through the Managing Director Coutts Otolo disclosed the Company will meet its financial obligation and total commitment to the team until the end of their contract in December 2016.

Mumias Sugar has been paying the salaries of the players and the technical bench since signing a three-month deal in 2011.

Leopards who appointed former Gor Mahia and Tanzania’s Simba SC tactician to replace Dutchman Pieter De Jongh, seems to have found their form in the 2015 Kenyan Premier League after registering two wins and a draw in three matches.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 28 – AFC Leopards suffered their first loss of the season after going down 1-0 to Ulinzi Stars in a Kenyan Premier League encounter played at Nakuru’s Afraha Stadium on Saturday.

Boniface Onyango netted the winner for the Soldiers in the sixth minute from a close range header to give Ulinzi their second successive victory and climb fifth on six points, a point behind Leopards who dropped to fourth.

In the early kick-off at the same venue, Western Stima beat struggling Nakuru All Stars 1-0 with Fredrick Shimonyo scoring the lone goal in the 56th that propelled Stima to second on nine points same as leaders Gor Mahia who have a game at hand.

Elsewhere, Raymond Ochieng grabbed a hat-trick as Wycliffe Opondo found the target to help Thika United bounce back and beat visiting Muhoroni Youth 4-2 at the Thika Sub County Stadium. Former Gor forward Anthony Nyangor scored a brace for the Sugar Millers.

All focus was on Leopards who had started finding their form despite facing financial challenges that have seen their players take to the field without two month salary and bonus arrears.

“This is our third game in seven days and fatigue overwhelmed us, our players could not move properly and that’s due to lack of proper pre-season. We entered the match without our two starters, Musa Mude and Austin Ikenna since they had personal problems but we are guilty we didn’t convert our chances.

“I saw poor officiating, Kenyan football will never grow, Ulinzi wasted a lot of time and the referee did nothing not even stopping the time,” Leopards head coach Zdravko Logarusic, declared after losing his first match since joining the club last month.

His opposite number Robert Matano, hailed his charges for the win, “We were composed and tactically superior than Leopards. We ensured they didn’t make their runs in the space because they have quality and speedy players who are good at that.”

Ingwe who entered the clash seeking a win that could have seen them topple arch rivals Gor on the standings, had a poor outing after being outplayed by the hosts who ripped apart their leaking defence.

The opening five minutes was an end to end action and it was the visitors who pulled the trigger first with Burundian, Emmanuel Ngama coming close in the second minute when he outpaced two defenders to unleash a right footed shot that went straight in the hands of Ulinzi keeper James Saruni.

Four minutes later, Onyango scored his first goal of the season and give Matano an early lead when he headed past Leopards custodian Wycliffe Kasaya from an Oliver Ruto header.

The hosts could double the lead in the 10th when Ezekiel Seda was booked for hacking down Oscar Wamalwa at the edge of the box, only for John Nairuka to squander the resultant free-kick that was blocked.

Left-back Abdallah Juma came to Leopards’ rescue in the 19th when he headed away Nairuka’s cross that had already beaten Kasaya who was exposed after defender Martin Kiiza miscued his clearance.

Logarusic solidified his midfield by bringing on Clement Kabemba for Seda while Mude came on for skipper Jackson Saleh who picked a knock.

The last chance for the military side in the first period came at the half hour mark through Nairuka who broke through from the right to drive in, only for him to miss the target when he went for glory as Wamalwa was on the goal mouth eagerly waiting to tap in.

Three minutes to the breather, Leopards got their second chance through Jacob Keli who unleashed a thunderbolt that troubled Saruni who recovered to deny the 2013 Player of the Year the equaliser and his third of the season.

Wamalwa and Ezekiel Otuoma wasted several open chances on resumption that could have seen Ulinzi add three more goals whilst on the other end Saruni denied Juma the leveler from a well taken free-kick.

The league continues Sunday with Chemelil Sugar taking on KCB in an early kick-off at Nairobi’s City Stadium before Tusker FC entertains Nairobi City Stars at the same venue.

Ushuru will be away to Sony Sugar at Awendo’s Green Stadium.

NAIROBI, Kenya, March 29 – Two first-half goals from Jesse Were was all that Tusker FC needed to beat Nairobi City Stars 2-1 in a Kenyan Premier League match played at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.

Were gave the Brewers an early lead in the third minute after capitalizing on City Stars defensive lapse before completing his brace from the spot in the 36th.

Substitute Joseph Sakwa scored the consolation for the Kawangware based side who are yet to register a win.

In the early kick-off, David Ojuang was on target to help visiting Chemelil Sugar overcome KCB 1-0 whist at the Awendo’s Green Stadium, Sony Sugar defeated Ushuru FC by the same margin with Samuel Onyango scoring the winner.

Tusker’s win saw head coach Francis Kimanzi who maintained his winning squad against Ulinzi Stars, pick his second successive win and ascend to fifth on the log on seven points.

“It seemed to be easier in the first-half because we had very little challenge from the opponent so it was not easy for us to keep the tempo up, but in the second-half they pushed more and gave us urgency to score. We are happy we have another win so we are coming back slowly,” Kimanzi stated after the win.

On the other hand, City Stars head coach, Paul Nkata conceded defeat but warned they will be a hard nut to crack in the coming matches.

“We started poorly and concede an early goal that demoralized our boys but after settling in the second-half, we pulled up and nearly equalized. We will to be a difficult side to beat in the coming matches.”

Arthur Museve gifted the Brewers an early lead when the defender deflected Kevin Kimani’s through pass that found Were in front of goal and made no mistake to punish the hosts from a close range tap in.

Tusker could have doubled the lead seven minutes later when Biran Osumba played a one-two with former Gor Mahia forward, Patrick Oboya but the latter went for glory as Were was in the goal mouth waiting to tap in.

Kimani forced Odhiambo to parry his long range cracker at the half hour mark but could not stop Were’s second goal five minutes later, when the captain was fouled in the box by Samuel Wailer to see referee Amos Ichingwa award Tusker the penalty that was well converted by the 2013 Golden Boot runners-up.

The brewers came close through Osumba who headed Kimani’s swinger inches wide before City Stars skipper Oscar Mbugua was booked for assimilation when he claimed a penalty from Humphrey Mieno’s tackle on the stroke of half-time.

City Stars upped their game on resumption with Nkata introducing Sakwa for Wailer and the changes were felt immediately when the latter pulled one back from a long range thunderous shot that was deflected by Tusker defender to beat keeper Faruk Shikhalo.

Sakwa was at it again in the 84th but this time Shikhalo denied him a brace that could have seen City Stars salvage a point.