AFC Leopards end winless streak with 1-0 victory over Police FC

Nairobi, 

Sunday, 1 December, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

AFC Leopards secured a vital 1-0 win over Kenya Police FC in a tense FKF Premier League match at Dandora Stadium on Sunday afternoon, ending their frustrating winless run. The match saw Kennedy Owino score the decisive goal in the second half, giving the home side all three points.

The game started with a fast pace, and Leopards came close to taking an early lead in the 3rd minute when Boniface Munyendo forced a save from Kenya Police goalkeeper Job Ochieng. 

However, the first half was marred by interruptions, including crowd trouble in the 11th minute. Security forces deployed tear gas to disperse fans attempting to force their way into the stadium, briefly halting play.

Once action resumed, both teams created a few chances, but neither could find the back of the net. Mousa Oundo came closest for Police, firing a long-range shot wide in the 33rd minute. For Leopards, Ovella Ochieng’s free-kick and Victor Omune’s header also went off target.

In the second half, both teams made tactical changes. Leopards coach Fred Ambani brought on Kelly Madada and Cliff Miheso in the 65th minute, hoping to change the momentum. The substitutions almost had an immediate impact, as Madada’s through pass set up a promising chance, although it was slightly overhit.

Leopards’ persistence paid off in the 76th minute. Madada won a free-kick just outside the box, and Ochieng delivered a well-taken shot that was expertly saved by Ochieng. However, the rebound fell kindly to Owino, who calmly slotted the ball into the net to give Leopards the lead.

Kenya Police FC had their own chances late in the game but were unable to respond. In the 85th minute, Sydney Lokale broke free and had a chance to double the lead, but his effort went wide of the goal with only defender David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng to beat.

Despite late pressure from Police, Leopards held firm to secure the 1-0 victory, a much-needed boost for the team’s morale. The win marks an important step for AFC Leopards as they aim to climb up the FKF Premier League standings.