KCB's Mattias Isogoli is sandwiched by Kariobangi Sharks; skipper Patilah Omoto and schoolboy Razel Omondi/Handout. KCB FC recovered from a weekend defeat to Mathare United by edging Kariobangi Sharks 1-0 in a tight Sportpesa Premier League clash at Kasarani Annexe on Tuesday.
The first half of the match was a tactical chess game, with both teams probing each other’s defences while remaining cautious.
KCB FC, with their midfield dominance, controlled possession effectively, while Kariobangi Sharks relied on quick transitions to threaten their opponents. The tension in the air was palpable as each side sought to exploit any weaknesses.
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute, a moment that would define the match. Richard Omondi, with a keen sense of positioning, latched onto a precise cross and unleashed a powerful shot past the Sharks’ goalkeeper Sebastian Wekesa.
This solitary goal, born from a well-worked move, was a testament to the quality that KCB possessed. JCB head coach Robert Matano praised Omondi’s composure and vision, underscoring the significance of such moments in high-stakes matches.
“It was a well-worked move,” said KCB coach Robert Matano. “Richard has the composure and vision to make a difference. We knew it would take a moment of quality to break them down, and he delivered.”
Matano added, “After the Mathare loss, the team showed character. We stayed disciplined, kept possession, and waited for our opportunity. That is the hallmark of a team growing in confidence.”
The second half saw both coaches making strategic substitutions, seeking to influence the course of the match. Matano’s decision to introduce Tyron Kariuki for December Kisakah just four minutes into the half was a calculated move to inject fresh energy into the midfield.
The dynamics of the game shifted as KCB FC sought to maintain their lead while simultaneously looking for opportunities to extend it. By the 65th minute, Matano implemented a triple substitution, bringing on Stephen Etyang, Maruti Dennis, and Philemon Nyakwaka.
“These changes were planned to maintain intensity and control,” Matano explained. “We wanted to protect the lead while ensuring the team stayed dynamic offensively. It is crucial to rotate and keep players sharp.” On the other side, Kariobangi Sharks’ coach William Muluya was equally proactive.
Recognising the need to overturn the deficit, he made early adjustments, introducing Biko Omolo and two young players, Razel Omondi and Ngume. Muluya’s intent was clear: to increase pace, creativity, and attacking options. Despite the changes, the Sharks struggled to convert their opportunities into goals, a frustration that would ultimately define their performance.
Muluya said, “We knew KCB would be tough to break down. Our substitutions were aimed at increasing pace, creativity, and attacking options. Unfortunately, we created opportunities but couldn’t convert.”
He added, “It’s disappointing to lose, but the players showed determination. We will analyse these moments and improve for the next fixture. Football is about learning from each challenge.”
Despite the Sharks’ pressure in the second half, KCB maintained composure, using tactical substitutions to maintain defensive stability and counterattack effectively.
Matano praised his side’s resilience, “After conceding in previous matches, we needed to show mental strength. The players responded well, executed the game plan, and maintained focus until the final whistle.”
“Our focus was to bounce back after Mathare. The players showed great discipline and patience. Richard’s goal was well-deserved. The substitutions helped us manage energy and maintain intensity.”
Kariobangi Sharks' William Muluya said, “We made several changes to try and alter the game, and the young players contributed positively. However, we missed chances and KCB capitalised on their opportunity. We will learn from this and come back stronger.”
Matano emphasised the importance of rotation and squad depth. “In a long season, these changes are vital. It’s not just about one match — it’s about preparing for challenges ahead and keeping the team competitive across multiple games.”
Muluya remained optimistic despite the defeat. “The spirit in the team is good. The players worked hard, and though the result was not in our favour, we will continue to build and adapt.”
The win moves KCB FC up the Sportpesa Premier League standings and provides confidence after their narrow loss to Mathare United. The bankers now look ahead to their next fixture with renewed momentum.
For Kariobangi Sharks, the defeat emphasises the need for sharper finishing and tactical cohesion. Muluya stressed that learning from this loss would be critical to climbing the league table.
KCB FC will aim to maintain their winning form in upcoming fixtures, with Matano likely to continue using strategic substitutions to optimise performance. Sharks will regroup and focus on exploiting weaknesses in upcoming matches, seeking to convert their possession and chances into goals. Both teams remain contenders in a competitive Sportpesa Premier League season, where fine margins often decide outcomes.
