Thika-based side escape relegation as Nairobi City Stars, Talanta kiss KPL goodbye

The 2024 Kenyan Premier League season wrapped in an enthralling fashion with a gripping finale that saw Bidco United escape relegation. 

The Thika-based side survived by a whisker, pulling off a hard-fought 2-1 win over Sofapaka at Ruaraka Grounds in Nairobi on Sunday.

The oilers wrapped up the season in 15th with 35 points, the same as Posta Rangers, Talanta and Nairobi City Stars, albeit with a healthier goal difference.

The stakes were high as Bidco approached the final match of the season. With the spectre of relegation looming large, the players knew their fate hinged on this encounter.

The match commenced with palpable tension, and within a mere 18 minutes, Bidco found themselves trailing after Joseph  Kuloba’s strike.

The early setback could have deflated the spirits of a lesser team. However, Bidco United, under the leadership of head coach Anthony Akhulia, rallied with fervour.

Dennis Murunga emerged as the hero, scoring a brace that would etch his name into the annals of the club’s history.

His first goal in the 21st minute was a product of tenacity and skill, an equaliser that breathed life back into the team and shifted the momentum of the match.

The second goal, a well-timed strike in the 66th minute, ensured their survival.

Akhulia praised his charges for dodging the axe.

The dramatic turnaround was not merely a reflection of individual brilliance but a culmination of teamwork, strategy, and a collective will to succeed.

“We have achieved our main target this season, which was to retain our status in the Kenyan Premier League. We fought well in the match and we deserved the victory. I’m happy we have ultimately survived,” he said.

Akhulia hinted at a major overhaul to make the Thika-based side more competitive next season.

“We are going to scan the market for good players... who can fight for the title next season. Some departments need strengthening,” he said.

Yet, while Bidco celebrated their survival, the landscape of the league was marked by contrasting fortunes for other teams.

Talanta, despite their commendable efforts throughout the season, were relegated. However, head coach Jackline Juma hailed his charges for putting up a good fight.

“We had a good team that did well despite the challenges we faced. We hope to give a good fight in the National Super League in a bid to return to top-flight status after one season,” she said.

Posta Rangers head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo said they would battle tooth and nail to remain on the big stage after wrapping up 16th, where they face Naivas FC in a two-legged promotion playoff. They drew one-all with Bandari.

“We are all eager to play in the Kenyan Premier League next season and we shall do our best in the playoffs. I’m still not sure who we shall be playing against, but we wait to see,” said Pamzo.

“But whoever the opponent is, we are ready.” 

Nairobi City Stars head coach Salim Babu said they live to fight another day after playing out a barren draw against Mathare United to bid farewell to the big stage.

“We gave it our best shot and we can only hope for better results that will enable us to return to the top-flight stage,” he said.