NSL: Shabana see off Silibwet to revive promotion hopes

After an indifferent start to the match for both sides, Yusuf Muhammed's headed goal in the 53rd minute for Shabana proved decisive as Silibwet failed to orchestrate an equalizer despite their relentless raid on the hosts' goal in the dying minutes of the game.

The match was marred with uncertainty after match officials failed to make it to the venue ahead of the scheduled 11:00 am kick-off time, forcing the tie to start two hours later, much to the disappointment of the two teams.

That seemed like a déjà vu for Shabana, whose fixture against Mombasa Elite was called off last week as match referees boycotted their duties, citing salary arrears.

However, after an hour of anxiety and waiting, they did show up, much to the relief of both sides.

Shabana enjoyed the lion's share of possession in both halves, bar the closing stages of the second have as the Leons pushed for an equalizer. All of their attempts were foiled by a mean Shabana defense-inspired heroics from seasoned goalkeeper Victor Kamungo.

Midfield sensation Brian Michira also came close to doubling Shabana's advantage in the 87th minute, but Silibwet goalkeeper stretched full-length to parry it wide.

Shabana head coach Sammy Otieno termed their latest victory a welcome turnaround from their recent struggles, having failed to win in their last three outings.

"My boys worked hard to win today, and I laud them. We were looking for an opportunity to bounce back, and I am glad we did it early enough.

We now switch focus to our next assignment against Dandora Love away, and I am confident we will make it two in a row.

His opposite, number Joseph Ongoro rued his side's inexperience while uncharacteristically praising his former side Shabana for earning the win.

"It was a bad day in the office for use, but we must understand that we were up against a very experienced side. We will bounce back and save our season, but for Shabana, I wish them well because they are in an excellent position.

They can achieve something good at the end of the season if they can maintain playing like they are."

Leons are ranked 11th on the log on 28 points after 24 outings this term.