'Shabana win over Police truly deserved', Coach Mwalala insists

Shabana FC assistant coach Bernard Mwalala insists their 1–0 away victory over defending league champions Kenya Police FC was no fluke, saying the result reflects the team’s growing belief and tactical improvement as they prepare for their next home assignment.

Shabana extended their unbeaten S Premier League run to four matches after edging Kenya Police at the Police Sacco Grounds on Sunday afternoon. Gilbert Abala’s well-taken first-half strike proved decisive as the “Glamour Boys” registered their third away win of the campaign and climbed to fourth in the standings.

The result not only halted the  law enforces three-match winning streak but also denied Dusan Stojanovic’s men a chance to temporarily go top of the table. Shabana, meanwhile, continued their impressive surge in form, collecting their 15th point of the season after 10 games.

Speaking after the match, assistant coach Mwalala praised his squad’s discipline and execution, emphasizing that the victory was fully earned.

“Our transition from defending to attack has been what we have been working on throughout the week, and it has paid off,” he said. “Despite the vital three points, we are also happy we completed the match without any injuries, which has been a concern for us.”

Mwalala admitted that while away form has been impressive, the real challenge lies in translating that success to their home turf—where Shabana have not won in their last three matches. Their next test comes against Bidco United, a side known for its organization and physicality.

“Of course, this is a big win for us, and we hope it will give us the motivation we need in our next match against Bidco. They are a good side, but we want to restore confidence in our fans at home. It has been challenging for us in the past three home games, and we want to change that,” Mwalala added.

In-form goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng, who now boasts three clean sheets this season, attributed the victory to Shabana’s collective mindset and heightened awareness during the game.

“We came in with a lot of awareness and fighting spirit. The clean sheet is important because it gives the team a chance to earn points and build momentum,” the shot-stopper said.

With Shabana now sitting fourth—just four points behind league leaders Gor Mahia—the Gusii-based outfit hopes Sunday’s triumph will be the spark that reignites their home form and strengthens their title ambitions.