Absence and Imbalance: Posta Rangers’ Composure Outshines Shabana’s Makeshift Lineup
It was a tough afternoon at Gusii Stadium as Shabana FC fell 2–1 to a tactically disciplined Posta Rangers side, in a match that exposed both the depth and the vulnerabilities of Coach Peter Ogidi’s squad.
From the onset, Shabana looked unsettled. The absence of key figures, captain George Onyango, midfielder Keith Imbali, creative brain Austin Odongo, and explosive winger Brian Michira was immediately felt.
These were not just missing names on a team sheet; they were the spine and spirit of Ogidi’s system. Their replacements, Wycliffe Omondi, Derrick Otieno, Erick Otieno, and Douglas Mokaya, showed heart, but the chemistry and understanding that usually define Shabana’s rhythm just weren’t there.
Things took an even sharper turn in the 38th minute, when defender Mark Oduor limped off after a collision and was replaced by Humphrey Obina. That substitution, though necessary, left the defensive line shaky and disoriented.
The organisation faltered, the communication broke, and within moments, Posta Rangers pounced, converting a set-piece opportunity just before halftime to snatch the lead.
Interestingly, both sides lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, but it was Coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo’s execution that stood out.
Posta Rangers were compact, deliberate, and ruthless in transition. Their build-up play was patient but purposeful, and they exploited every inch of the space Shabana’s restructured midfield left behind.
Posta's patience in building was evident in their dominant possession with 67%, reflecting their control of midfield and ability to dictate tempo.
Shabana’s changes meant they lacked control and had 33% possession. It was a team that chose to be more direct in their play, fewer passes, but moved quickly to the final third.
A sign of an unsettled side that was rushing to make things happen.
Trevor Omondi Stands Out
At the heart of their dominance was Trevor Omondi, who was named Tisini’s star of the match due to his performance. Calm under pressure and clinical in possession, he threaded passes that sliced through Shabana’s defensive shape and eventually scored the decisive goal, a moment of sheer quality that highlighted the gulf in composure between the two sides on the day.
Despite flashes of brilliance and a spirited response from the Glamour Boys, the damage had already been done. Shabana looked like a team searching for identity amid injury chaos, while Posta Rangers walked away with a performance that screamed structure, belief, and efficiency.
Coach Ogidi’s challenge now goes beyond tactics, it’s about rebuilding confidence and reminding his squad that even in adversity, the badge demands resilience.
Feature Image Credit: Shabana
