Bandari’s recent struggles continued on Saturday with a 1-0 defeat to Kakamega Homeboyz at Mbaraki Stadium in Mombasa.
The only goal of the match came in the 73rd minute, when Moses Shuma unleashed a powerful shot from 16 yards out, beating Bandari goalkeeper Bryne Omondi. The goal, set up by a well-executed cross from John Omondi, proved to be the match-winner and secured all three points for the visitors.
With the victory, Kakamega Homeboyz climbed to 5th place in the league standings with 41 points, while Bandari remained 9th with 36 points. The loss leaves the Dockers struggling to recover from a run of poor results.
Bandari’s performance in the match was lackluster, as they failed to create meaningful opportunities during the first half. Strikers Alfred Tanui and Izzadin Juma were effectively neutralized by a disciplined Homeboyz defense, and the hosts were unable to break down their opponents’ solid structure.
Kakamega Homeboyz, on the other hand, also struggled in front of goal, with Shuma and Pius Mwangi both wasting early chances as the teams went into halftime level at 0-0.
Desperate to find a breakthrough in the second half, Bandari head coach Ken Odhiambo made attacking substitutions, bringing on top scorer Beja Nyamawi and Hamisi Mwaphalu. Nyamawi almost made an immediate impact, forcing a fingertip save from Homeboyz goalkeeper George Opiyo just two minutes after coming on. However, it was Homeboyz who made their opportunity count when Shuma struck in the 73rd minute.
The goal seemed to shake Bandari out of their rhythm, and they attempted to find an equalizer in the closing stages. Nyamawi had another chance, but his effort was easily dealt with by Opiyo. Veteran forward John Makwata also had a late attempt, but the Homeboyz defense stood firm, and the visitors held on for the win.
After the match, Bandari head coach Ken Odhiambo expressed frustration at his team’s performance, particularly their failure to capitalize on clear-cut chances. “This is probably our worst performance. We missed clear chances open nets,” Odhiambo said. “What more can I do? Teach players how to score? Something needs to change.”
In contrast, Homeboyz coach Francis Baraza was full of praise for his team’s disciplined performance. “We knew it would be tight, given how close we are in the standings,” Baraza said. “We adjusted, stayed patient, and forced them into mistakes. The boys earned this win.”
Elsewhere in Nairobi, defending champions Gor Mahia were held to a 1-1 draw by Sofapaka at Dandora Stadium. A late equalizer denied Gor Mahia a chance to top the league standings after Police lost 1-0 to Ulinzi Stars the previous day.
