Harambee Stars duo Zak Vyner and Vincent Harper delivered standout performances in England, helping their clubs end 2024 on a high note.
Zak Vyner played a crucial role in Bristol City’s dominant 3-0 win over Portsmouth in a Championship fixture on Sunday afternoon. Vyner, who remains unavailable for Kenya due to unresolved documentation issues, featured prominently on the right side of a back three. His composed defending ensured that Portsmouth’s attack posed minimal threat throughout the match. The Robins were in excellent form, with Anis Mehmeti leading the charge. The Albanian forward scored twice in the first half, giving Bristol City a commanding 2-0 lead within 20 minutes. Max Bird assisted Mehmeti’s first goal, and the forward coolly slotted the ball past Portsmouth’s goalkeeper.
The second goal came soon after, as Nahki Wells delivered a perfect cross from the left for Mehmeti to sweep home. Moments later, defender Rob Dickie reacted swiftly to tap in from close range following a saved header by Luke McNally, effectively sealing the win for Bristol City. Vyner’s defensive contribution was key in maintaining the clean sheet and ensuring that Portsmouth had no chance of a comeback.
Meanwhile, in League One, Vincent Harper produced a memorable performance for Exeter City in their dramatic 4-4 draw with Crawley Town at St James Park. Harper, who was called up to the Harambee Stars squad in October 2023 for a friendly match against Russia, played as a left wing-back and was instrumental in Exeter’s incredible fightback. Crawley Town had taken a commanding 4-1 lead, thanks to goals from Panutche Camara, Will Swan, Tola Showunmi, and Armando Quitirna.
However, Harper’s brilliant curling effort in the 60th minute sparked Exeter’s comeback. His stunning goal brought the score to 4-2, and soon after, goals from Ryan Woods and Demitri Mitchell completed the dramatic turnaround, securing a point for Exeter. The match highlighted the team’s resilience and Harper’s key role in the recovery, as his goal and assist were pivotal in the dramatic finish. The draw was a testament to Exeter’s determination, keeping them firmly in the mid-table of League One.
In League Two, Clarke Oduor made a substitute appearance for Bradford City in their 2-1 victory over Chesterfield. The visitors initially took the lead through Armando Dobra, but Bradford responded with goals from Bobby Pointon and Antoni Sarcevic to secure all three points. Bradford’s victory extended their unbeaten streak to four matches and kept them in the race for promotion. Oduor’s contribution, though brief, helped maintain the team’s momentum as they continue to push for a higher finish in the league.
These performances by Vyner, Harper, and Oduor showcase the growing influence of Harambee Stars prospects in English football. Each player played a vital role in their respective teams, helping them achieve positive results and solidify their positions in their leagues. As the players continue to impress, their development is sure to be a key factor in Kenya’s future footballing prospects.
