Homeboyz unbeaten run ended by Talanta, KCB goes top

Kakamega Homeboyz unbeaten run of 11 opening games of the current Kenyan Premier League (KPL) campaign came to an end on Tuesday after a shock 1-0 defeat to debutants FC Talanta at Bukhungu Stadium - Kakamega.

The loss gave KCB a chance to move to the top of the league standings after edging out Mathare United 1-0 at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, courtesy of Derrick Otanga’s goal.

The Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno coached bankers are now sit on the summit with 25 points from 12 matches, as Kakamega Homeboyz have but with a greater goal difference.

At the Nyayo National Stadium, Clifton Miheso grabbed a brace as Kenya Police thrashed debutantes Vihiga Bullets 4-0, Duke Abuya and Clinton Kinanga completing the party with a goal each.

Police thus moved to 10th position on 15 points, while Bullets are still rocked at the bottom with only two points.

In other matches of the day, Kariobangi Sharks beat Ulinzi Stars by a solitary goal at the Nakuru ASK Grounds to move to the fourth with 21 points from 12 outings, while Bandari beat hosts Sofapaka 0-1 in Wudanyi.

At Bukhungu, veteran striker Edwin Lavatsa scored the only goal in the 18th minute of the first half.

Homeboyz chance of snatching a point with an equalizer in the 98th minute was thwarted when Talanta goalkeeper James Omusinde saved defender George Odiwuor controversial penalty.

Homeboyz coach Bernard Mwalala said he wasn't happy with the performance of his team but remained adamant that they are still going to challenge for the title this season.

“This is our worst performance since we started the season, but we have to soldier on and fight for the title, ending our unbeaten run will not dissuade us. On the positive note we now have no pressure about this unbeaten run narrative.

“On the average, a team that wins the Kenyan Premier League loses up to five matches so we are still good. We now have to shift focus to the next match,” said Mwalala.

Talanta fc coach Ken Kenyatta was happy to get the three points from the in-form Homeboyz, on the road.

“The match was nice, I enjoyed it although officiating was poor. It is important for us to win such an away match, it gives us more confidence in our matches ahead. I don’t find it any special to beat Homeboyz, any side is beatable,” he said.

Kakamega Homeboyz 0-1 FC Talanta

Sofapaka 0-1 Bandari

Kenya Police 4-0 Vihiga Bullets

Mathare United 0-1 KCB

Additional report by Matthews Mutai, Julius Joho and Robert wa Maina.