NSL Review: Black Stars Held by Naivas as Shabana go top

National Super League giants Shabana FC head coach Sammy Okoth has lauded his charges for their scintillating display in Wednesday’s 5-0 demolition of Mwatate United at Gusii Stadium, a win that saw them leapfrog Kibera Black Stars to the summit of the NSL log.

A hat trick from in-form marksman Vincent Nyabuto on either side of the break and a brace from Wycliffe Nthata in the second half were enough to hand the glamour boys their biggest win of the season in what Okoth sees as a show of their determination to challenge for top honours this season.

Okoth reiterated their focus on returning to the Kenyan Premier League. 

“We played better today and are happy to have come out with a big win. However, we are realistic enough to understand that we have a long way to go before the season ends.

“We will continue to fight for a safe passage to the top flight by taking one game at a time. If you look at teams that have done well in the past, one common trait is their humility, focus and determination. That is what we want to achieve.”

His Mwatate United counterpart Mark Assa rued fatigue for their heavy loss, with his players having travelled the preceding night from Mombasa.

“We made mistakes in the game, but I feel fatigue took a huge toll on my players."

" Am confident we will bounce back and play well in our next match,” he lamented.

Elsewhere a lethargic show in front of goal saw Kibera Black Stars settle for a barren draw against sophomores Naivas FC at Ligi Ndogo Grounds along Ngong Road. At the same time, Daraji Gogo overcame Mombasa Elite 3-1 at Camp Toyoyo.

Mara Sugar lost their second game on the bounce after they capitulated 2-0 in the hands of Gusii FC in the 1.00 pm kick-off match at Gusii Stadium.

Kibera Black Stars 0-0 Naivas FC

Darajani Gogo 3-1 Mombasa Elite

Gusii United 2-0 Mara Sugar

Shabana 5-0 Mwatate United

MCF 3-0 SS Assad