Bandari edge Bidco United in Kwale

Bandari FC returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bidco United in a KPL encounter staged at Kwale Stadium today.

The decisive moment came in the 60th minute when Ugandan forward William Wadri rose highest to head home Abdalla Hassan’s pinpoint cross, sealing all three points for the coastal side.

Bidco United had shown early intent, with Herman Ngala testing his luck in the 12th minute after pouncing on a loose ball outside the box, but his powerful effort drifted off target. Bandari responded swiftly, as Abdalla Hassan linked up well with striker Amza Ndayou, only for goalkeeper Issa Emuria to deny them.

The visitors remained dangerous, and in the 25th minute, winger Ben Muna weaved past Bandari defenders before firing a low shot that was well saved by Alain Ngeleka.

Moments before halftime, Hassan nearly broke the deadlock with a curling effort from 25 yards that rattled the crossbar.

Bandari resumed the second half on the front foot, with Darius Msagha forcing another save just three minutes after the restart.

Their persistence eventually paid off when Wadri nodded in the winner midway through the half.

Bidco pushed for a late equalizer, but Ngeleka produced a crucial goal-line save in stoppage time to deny Clinton Asiago and preserve Bandari’s slender lead.

The result marked Bandari’s first win at Kwale Stadium and ended a four-match winless run.

Speaking after the match, Bidco United assistant coach Bernard Kawinzi lamented missed opportunities and lack of focus.

“We cannot claim to have played well after losing late in the match. Considering our position in the table, we must collect points even away from home to keep our season on track,” he said.

Bandari’s goalkeeping coach Razak Siwa, on the other hand, praised his team’s determination.

“It was a tough match, but we are pleased to come away with the win. We’ll keep pushing to finish the season strongly,” he noted.

Earlier in the day, Bandari Queens also impressed at the same venue, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Diani Queens.

Salama Mariga netted twice, while Agnes Olesi added a third to lift the team to second place in the Women’s National Super League, boosting their hopes of securing a playoff spot for promotion to the Kenya Women Premier League.