Venue: Kasarani Annex
Competition: Kenya Women Premier League – Matchweek 3
Kayole Starlets continued their strong start to the season with a convincing 2–0 win over Kisumu All Starlets, as Lindah Kihara and Ashley Shilwatso both found the back of the net for the second consecutive game.
FIRST HALF
Kisumu arrived in Nairobi still in search of their first win of the season, while our focus was firmly on building momentum with back-to-back victories.
We started brightly, dictating possession and tempo from the opening whistle. Early opportunities fell to Magneta Ocharo, Nuru Hadima, and Ashley Shilwatso, but the visitors’ goalkeeper and compact defense kept the scores level.
Despite sustained pressure and fluid passing sequences, the first half ended goalless, with the Starlets unable to break down a well-organized Kisumu backline.
SECOND HALF — LINDAH & ASHLEY ON TARGET
The breakthrough came shortly after the restart. Substitute Lindah Kihara, introduced in the 53rd minute, made an immediate impact—coolly slotting home after a delightful delivery from Salome Drailer.
Buoyed by the opener, the Starlets kept pressing high, and it paid off once again. Faith Naliaka’s teasing cross caused confusion in the Kisumu defense, allowing Ashley Shilwatso to tap in from close range—her fourth goal of the season and third consecutive scoring appearance.
Naliaka was a constant threat on the wings, stretching the Kisumu defense and creating multiple dangerous moments throughout the second half.
DEFENSIVE MASTERCLASS
At the back, the defensive line of Hellen Ochieng, Foscah Kanenge, Lavyne Achola, Salome Drailer, and goalkeeper Pauline Kathuruh delivered a composed and commanding performance to register our first clean sheet of the season.
Hellen stood out with a crucial first-half tackle that denied a clear scoring chance, anchoring a defense that looked well-drilled and confident throughout.
WHAT’S NEXT
After a productive 10-day training camp at the Mashuuru Sports Foundation, the team looked sharper in ball progression and passing rhythm.
With six points from the opening three games, Kayole Starlets now shift focus to a tough away fixture against Bungoma Queens at the Bungoma Polytechnic Grounds.
MATCHWEEK TAKEAWAYS
- 🧱 First Clean Sheet: A disciplined defensive performance led to our first shutout of the season.
- ⚽ Ashley’s Hot Streak: Three consecutive goalscoring games — four goals total this season.
- 💥 Lindah’s Impact: Two goals in two matches since returning to the starting lineup.
- 🌟 Player of the Match: Salome Drailer — first time playing in defense, assisted the opener, and helped secure the clean sheet.
HIGHLIGHTS