Kayole Starlets bounced back in style, securing a crucial 2–0 away victory over Vihiga Queens to return to winning ways and claim all three points in Mumias. Both sides entered the encounter looking to recover from defeats in their previous outings. Kayole had suffered a heavy 5–0 loss to Ulinzi Starlets, while Vihiga Queens had fallen 2–0 to Kibera Soccer Women. With both teams eager to get their seasons back on track, the clash promised a competitive battle. Head coach George Kimani made a few changes to the starting lineup, handing Shani Shemaiah her first start while deploying Elizabeth Okello in midfield. Martha Nafula returned to central defence to partner Foscah Kanenge. Meanwhile, Rebecca Odato missed out on the travelling squad after suffering a minor accident on the eve of the match.
Our Starting XI: Nelly Achieng (GK), Maryjane Otieno, Foscah Kanenge, Martha Nafula, Ivy Onyango, Elizabeth Okello (C), Salome Sati, Shani Shemaiah, Eunice Nabwoba ‘Bobby’, Naomi Masinde, Magneta Ocharo
Subs: Sonia Wambui (GK), Sharon Lidoro, Grace Okumu, Jane Njeri, Charity Wanjala, Anney Matinde
EXCELLENT START
Kayole Starlets made a confident start and were rewarded in the 15th minute. Eunice Bobby picked out Naomi Maisnde with a perfectly weighted pass, and the forward calmly chipped the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to give Kayole the lead and score her first goal in Starlets colours. Magneta Ocharo nearly doubled the advantage minutes later, forcing the Vihiga Queens goalkeeper into action as she came off her line to deny the forward and concede a corner. At the other end, Vihiga Queens created a few opportunities in search of an equaliser, but Kayole’s defensive unit remained organised and composed. The partnership of Martha Nafula and Foscah Kanenge stood firm at the back, ensuring the visitors carried their slender advantage into the break.
SEALING 3 POINTS IN STYLE
Vihiga Queens came out with greater intensity after the restart, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, Kayole remained committed to their approach, building from the back and looking to exploit spaces in the attacking third. In the 53rd minute, Charity Wanjala replaced Shani Shemaiah, bringing fresh energy and pace to the wings. She combined well with Naomi Maisnde shortly before the cooling break, but their resulting effort was saved by the goalkeeper. Magneta Ocharo continued to threaten the hosts’ defence, coming close once again with a low effort that the goalkeeper pushed behind for a corner.
The second half also saw Jane Njeri make her first appearance in Kayole colours, while Sharon Lidoro was introduced for the injured Ivy Onyango. Lidoro also made her debut for the club, while Eunice Bobby made way as part of the changes.
With time running out, Kayole finally found the decisive second goal. Three minutes from the end of normal time, Charity Wanjala delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. After the ball took a deflection off a defender’s head, Magneta Ocharo rose highest to direct a powerful header into the net, sealing the victory for the visitors. Vihiga Queens came close to pulling one back two minutes into stoppage time, but their effort struck the lower side of the left post. The rebound fell into a dangerous area before Martha Nafula reacted quickly to clear the ball and preserve Kayole’s clean sheet. The final whistle confirmed a vital 2–0 victory for Kayole Starlets, who responded to their previous defeat with a disciplined performance, clinical finishing and a resilient defensive display to claim all three points away from home.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Kayole Starlets return home on Sunday to host Kibera Soccer Women. Kibera currently sit third in the standings with 12 points, while Kayole occupy fifth place. Kayole will be aiming to build on their victory in Mumias and close the gap on their next opponents as the league campaign gathers momentum.
MATCHWEEK 5 TAKEAWAYS
- Naomi Masinde opens her account: The forward scored her first goal for Kayole Starlets since joining the club in February.
- Magneta maintains her scoring form: The forward netted her third goal of the season, continuing her impressive start to the campaign.
- Bobby turns provider: Eunice Bobby registered an assist for Naomi Maisnde’s opening goal.
- Two debuts: Sharon Lidoro and Jane Njeri made their first appearances for Kayole Starlets.
- Another clean sheet for Nelly: Goalkeeper Nelly Achieng recorded her second clean sheet of the season.
- POTM Award Winner: Martha Nafula was named the Ushindi Player Of The Match after a solid performance at the back