Bandari drown Police in Mombasa

The narrow victory was secured by a moment of brilliance from Darius Msagha, whose second-half strike extended Mwalala’s unbeaten run to four matches since taking charge of the Dockers early this month.

The win lifts Bandari FC to seventh place on the table with 27 points after 18 rounds of the Kenya Premier League.

Bandari started the match on the front foot and nearly took an early lead in the second minute when captain Andrew Juma’s powerful header was dramatically cleared off the goal line by Police FC left-back Geoffrey Onyango.

The law enforcers responded well and began to settle into the game, with David Okoth coming close from a 20-yard free kick that narrowly missed the target after sustained pressure in Bandari’s half.

Five minutes before halftime, Bandari’s Amza Ndayou tested Police goalkeeper Job Ochieng twice in quick succession, but the custodian stood firm to keep the scores level heading into the break.

At the start of the second half, Bandari made two immediate changes, introducing Brian Odera and Geoffrey Ojunga for Izzadin Juma and captain Andrew Juma.

The substitutions paid off as Bandari maintained relentless pressure, which finally told in the 71st minute when Darius Msagha scored directly from a corner kick, curling a superb effort past the Police defence and goalkeeper Job Ochieng.

Kenya Police FC almost snatched a late equaliser in stoppage time, but Jacques Bowamba squandered a golden chance from close range, allowing Bandari to walk away with another crucial victory.

Speaking after the match, Bandari FC head coach Bernard Mwalala praised his players’ character and commitment.

“Since I arrived, I’ve received full support from the management and fans. We are building a strong team — a team that belongs in the top five, not by luck. That’s the mentality I’m bringing back,” said Mwalala.

“Our aim is to win every match. The mission now is to break into the top five and then plan from there.”

On the other hand, Kenya Police FC head coach Nicholas Muyoti felt his side was unfortunate not to collect maximum points.

“We played well and dominated most of the game, but we conceded a very cheap goal from a direct corner. Still, I’m happy with the performance, and I believe the players will soon fully adapt to our style of play,” Muyoti said.