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Shabana claimed their third win of the season against AFC Leopards in a match that was momentarily halted due to heavy rains at stoppage time.
Shabana FC continued their impressive run with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over AFC Leopards in closely contested fixture at the Gusii Stadium.
Shabana made just one change to their starting XI, welcoming youngster Ezekiah Omuri back into the fold.
Meanwhile, Leopards introduced Julius Masaba and Musa Oundo to their lineup, with Humphrey Katasi starting in goal and Sydney Lokale leading the attack.
08:00 - 26.11.2024
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First half
The match began with Shabana imposing themselves early on. Their energetic start had Leopards scrambling to contain them, but despite several close attempts, Shabana's early pressure didn't bear fruit.
Leopards, however, cracked in the 34th minute. Striker Mathew Tegisi displayed superb composure, holding up play before setting up Brian Michira, who delivered a clinical header to put Shabana ahead.
Moments later, Michira struck again, this time benefiting from brilliant footwork by Omwando, who danced through the defense to provide an inch-perfect assist. Michira’s brace put Shabana in control with a 2-0 lead.
Just before halftime, Leopards clawed back into the contest. Bobface Munyendo fired home to give the visitors a lifeline, ensuring they headed into the break trailing by just one goal.
Second half
Leopards coach Thomas Trucha made a bold statement at halftime, introducing three substitutes Victor Otieno, Kelly Madada, and Arthur Gitego in place of Roonie Shichenje, Boniface Munyendo, and Julius Masaba.
The changes added urgency to Leopards' play as they pressed relentlessly for an equalizer.
Despite their heightened intensity, Shabana’s defense stood firm. The hosts thwarted multiple attacking surges and maintained their composure under pressure.
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08:47 - 26.11.2024
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Leopards' efforts to find the elusive equalizer were in vain as Shabana held on to secure all three points.
The win marked Shabana’s third victory of the season to take their points tally to 12 and improve on their log standing.
Meanwhile, Leopards will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities as they look to bounce back in upcoming fixtures.
How they lined up:
Shabana FC starting XI: Stephen Ochieng (GK), Marvin Brian, James Mazembe, Okola Mark, Onyango George (C), Sam Kintu, Msagha Darius, Omwando Justine, Tegisi Mathew, Michira Brian, Omuri Ezekiah.
Subs: Maxwell Mulili, Otieno Bernard, Okoth Dennis, Bett Brian, Raila Christopher, Maiko Samuel, Shem Odinga, Lameck Onwonga, Omamo Dimpol, Omundi Kevin.
AFC Leopards starting XI: Katasi Humphrey (GK), Lewis Bandi, Mahiga Vincent, Randi Bakari, Kennedy Odhiambo, Musa Oundo, Julius Masaba, Bonface Kweyu, Sydney Lokale, Cliffon Miheso (C) Bebeto Ronald
Subs: Musha Abubakar, Samuel Guto, Okaka Aziz, Samuel Semo, Gideon Were, Brian Wanyama, Kelly Madada, Victor Omune, Maxwell Otieno, Ovella Ochieng, Arthur Gitego.
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