Kakamega Homeboyz triumphed 2-0 over Shabana at the Mumias Complex on Sunday, securing a crucial victory in the FKF Premier League. The win not only marked their third of the season but also lifted them out of the relegation zone, giving the team a much-needed morale boost after their midweek loss to Gor Mahia.
Homeboyz came into the match looking to bounce back, having suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Gor Mahia just days earlier. They made four changes to their lineup, with Gospel Otieno returning to the starting XI in place of the injured Eston Omengo. Alvin Ochieng earned his first start of the season against his former club, while Ben Stanley and Pius Wangi were also reinstated in the starting XI.
Shabana, meanwhile, came into the match on a strong run, having won their last three games. The team made one change to their lineup, bringing Dimpol Omamo back into the starting XI. Shabana’s midfield was anchored by Sam Kintu and Justine Omwando, with Mathew Tegisi leading their attack.
The match started with Homeboyz taking control early on. They made their mark in the 13th minute when John Omondi picked out Moses Shumah with a pinpoint pass, and Shumah coolly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Shabana responded with attacking efforts, but Bryan Michira and Brian Marvin’s pace caused problems for Homeboyz’s defense, though they were unable to convert their chances.
The hosts doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Glen Otunga struck a stunning shot from distance. The ball flew past Shabana’s goalkeeper Stephen Otieno, registering Otunga’s first goal for Homeboyz and putting the team in a commanding position. As halftime approached, Shabana’s Mathew Tegisi came close to pulling one back, but Homeboyz goalkeeper James Cleo made a crucial save to preserve the two-goal lead.
Shabana came out for the second half with renewed determination, making changes to their lineup. Omamo was replaced by Shem Odinga, while Dennis Okoth came on for Justine Omwando. The changes reflected Shabana’s intent to find a way back into the match. Their efforts were given a boost in the 63rd minute when Gospel Otieno of Homeboyz received a red card for a second bookable offense, reducing the hosts to ten men.
With the numerical advantage, Shabana pressed forward, with captain George Onyango leading the charge. The visitors came close to scoring on a couple of occasions, including a shot from Onyango that hit the side netting, but they were unable to capitalize on their chances.
In an effort to manage the game and hold on to their lead, Homeboyz made a triple substitution in the 70th minute. Ambrose Sifuna, Oliver Machaka, and Hansel Ochieng replaced Shumah, Stanley Omondi, and Pius Wangi. The fresh legs helped Homeboyz withstand the pressure and maintain their two-goal advantage despite Shabana’s relentless attacks.
As the final whistle blew, Homeboyz had held on to their lead, securing all three points and moving up the FKF Premier League standings. The win was a much-needed confidence booster after their earlier defeat to Gor Mahia and saw them climb out of the relegation zone.
Kakamega Homeboyz’s victory demonstrated their resilience, especially given the adversity of playing with a man down for the final 27 minutes. The match also highlighted the potential of their attacking players, such as Shumah and Otunga, who were pivotal in their team’s victory. With the win, Homeboyz will be hoping to build momentum and continue improving their position in the league.
