We are in driving seat for NSL title, says Shabana coach Okoth

After edging visiting Mully Children’s Family 3-1 in a National Super League match at Gusii Stadium, Shabana coach Sammy Okoth believes they are in the driving seat for the title.

Okoth said: “It’s a very important win for us. The hunt for the NSL title is in our hands. My target is to win the two remaining games against Murang’a Seal and Kisumu All Stars.”

“I know the two games will be tough but we have to maintain our winning momentum and finish the league on a high. I know the game against Murang’a will be tougher but I believe my boys are up to the task."

He bemoaned how the poor playing field made it difficult for both teams to display an entertaining game.

“The playing surface was poor following Tuesday's heavy rains, which even forced the match be abandoned,” he noted.

His MCF counterpart, David Mahira, graciously conceded defeat.

“We lost to a better side and I concede. I congratulate Shabana and Murang’a Seal on their promotion to the Kenyan Premier League. I’m also impressed by the huge turnout of fans. I have never seen anything like this in the NSL,” said Mahira, a former Shabana player.

On-form winger Isaac Otieno gave Shabana the lead in the 10th minute before John Ochieng leveled matters for the visitors with a sublime free-kick two minutes to the break.

In the second half, Shabana were awarded a penalty after an MCF player handled the ball in the area.

Shabana goalkeeper Mustapha Oduor sent his MCF counterpart the wrong way to restore Shabana’s lead.

Super-sub Nehemiah Onchiri aka Neymar wrapped up the scores for Shabana in added time of a match watched by an impressive crowd led by Shabana vice chairman Wycliffe Ayienda.

The winner saw Shabana extend their lead to 70 points.

In another match played at Gusii Stadium on Wednesday, Gusii beat visiting Darajani Gogo 1-0 despite fans, mostly Shabana supporters, rallying behind the visitors.