Kenya Women National Super League

March 23 2025, 15:00

Kayole Starlets FC 0 : 0 Bandari Queens FC

Match Report: Kayole Starlets 0-0 Bandari Queens

Match Overview

In a high-stakes top-of-the-table clash, league leaders Kayole Starlets faced off against second-placed Bandari Queens in a tense battle. With 42 points, we held a six-point lead over Bandari Queens (36 points) heading into the match, both teams eager to strengthen their grip on the title race as the season nears its conclusion.

The match kicked off with high intensity, and Bandari Queens almost capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 5th minute. A powerful shot from their forward struck the crossbar, and the rebound was quickly cleared by Hellen Ochieng. Bandari dominated the early midfield exchanges, making it difficult for us to settle into our usual rhythm.

Our first real opportunity came in the 16th minute when Chris Kach and Salome Drailer combined on the right wing to set up Shalin Otieno, whose shot found only the side netting. Defenses on both sides held firm, limiting clear-cut chances throughout the first half. Just before halftime, Drailer connected with a header from Shalin, but her effort narrowly missed the target.

Second Half Action

Coach Busu made an early tactical adjustment, bringing on Melissa Vivian in midfield for Drailer in the 49th minuteto inject more attacking energy. In the 65th minute, Esther Wanjiru replaced Shalin Otieno in an attempt to break the deadlock.

Despite both teams pushing forward, defensive resilience remained the theme of the match. In the 85th minute, our goalkeeper Pauline Kathuruh produced a stunning acrobatic save from a powerful free-kick, earning a roar of approval from the home crowd. Deep into added time, Melissa had a golden chance to snatch the win, but her header was comfortably collected by the Bandari Queens goalkeeper.

With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match ended in a goalless draw, a result that sees us maintain our six-point lead at the top of the FKFWNSL Zone A league with 43 points, while Bandari Queens move to 37 points.

With only three matches remaining, we now need just four more points to clinch the WNSL Zone A title. Speaking after the game, Coach Busu praised her squad’s composure under pressure but urged her strikers to be more clinical.

“I praise my players. The pressure was high as Bandari Queens came well-prepared, but we managed to contain them and play our game. Unfortunately, we didn’t convert our chances. Looking ahead to the final three matches, we are taking it one game at a time.”

Our next challenge is a crucial away fixture against Gor Mahia Queens at Makongeni Grounds this coming weekend. The team will be determined to return to winning ways and edge closer to the championship.

Match Summary & Key Takeaways

  • Defensive dominance continues, as we record our 16th clean sheet of the season and 16 Games unbeaten run

  • Pauline Kathuruh officially secures the FKF WNSL 24/25 Golden Glove with 15 clean sheets this season.

  • This match marked Coach Mary Adhiambo’s 50th game since taking charge in March 2023, succeeding current chairman Joshua Sakwa.

  • Player of the Match: Pauline Kathuruh for her crucial saves that ensured a well-earned point.

🔜 Next Match: Gor Mahia Queens 🆚 Kayole Starlets | Makongeni Grounds | This Weekend

The title race is going down to the wire. Let’s finish strong! 🔥💪 #KayoleStarlets

Player of the Match

Kathuruh was voted the player of the match after pulling off an outstanding save to keep our clean sheet record at home going. You can tip her via Payd here https://link.payd.one/matchweek-19-player-of-the-match-pauline-kathuruh

Match Highlights