Kenya Women Premier League
October 04 2025, 13:00
 Kayole Starlets FC
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1 : 2 |
 Kenya Police Bullets
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Match Report: Kayole Starlets 1-2 Police Bullets
After 132 days, Kayole Starlets finally returned to top-flight action — marking their much-anticipated comeback to the FKF Women Premier League with a spirited display against defending champions Police Bullets.
The game started at a blistering pace, with the visitors seizing the early advantage. In the 8th minute, a cross from Emily Moranga took an unfortunate deflection off Lavyne Achola, resulting in an own goal. Just five minutes later, Puren Alukwe doubled Police Bullets’ lead after her shot slipped through the goalkeeper’s hands, leaving the Starlets trailing 2–0.
Despite the early setback, Kayole regrouped well and began to find rhythm. The midfield trio of Faith Naliaka, Nuru Hadima, and Lindah Kihara worked tirelessly to regain control, while the defense — led by Captain Hellen Ochieng— tightened up to prevent further damage.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Starlets side. Goalkeeper Pauline Kathuruh made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline intact, including a fingertip stop from Lornah Nyarinda’s curling delivery. In the 64th minute, Ashley Shilwatso, making her debut, combined brilliantly with Lindah Kihara to set up Nuru Hadima, whose long-range strike rattled the crossbar.
Deep into stoppage time, Ashley announced her arrival in style — curling a direct free-kick into the top corner to pull one back for Kayole Starlets. Despite the late surge, Police Bullets held on for a 2–1 win, but the Starlets’ performance showed immense promise.
After the match, Head Coach Mary Adhiambo reflected:
“The game did not go as we planned, but so far so good. Our girls played well according to our game plan — the goals just didn’t come.”
Newly appointed captain Hellen Ochieng added:
“Heads up to my teammates. We should keep on fighting, and we will win eventually.”
The focus now shifts to Matchweek 2, as Kayole Starlets aim to bounce back against Gideon Starlets on Sunday at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homabay from 1 PM.
Starting XI:
Pauline Kathuruh, Mary Wali, Lavyne Achola, Hellen Ochieng, Foscah Kanenge, Eunice Nabwoba, Faith Naliaka, Nuru Hadima, Lindah Kihara, Drailer Sati, Shalin Otieno
Substitutes: Eunice Gor, Fidy Njoki, Peris Odanga, Mercy Mang’uro, Ashley Shilwatso, Praxidis Shivikwa, Valerian Nabwire, Esther Ngugi, Magneta Ocharo
Matchweek 1 Takeaways:
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7 players made their Kayole Starlets debut: Foscah Kanenge, Mary Wali, Eunice Nabwoba, Lindah Kihara, Faith Naliaka, Peris Oside, and Ashley Shilwatso.
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Ashley Shilwatso scored on her debut — becoming the second player to do so for the senior team after Shalin Otieno last season.
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Despite defeat, Kayole Starlets showed strong team cohesion and resilience, setting the tone for a competitive season ahead.