Kisped Queens Edge Vihiga Queens 1-0 in a Thrilling New Year FKF Women Premier League Clash

The FKF Women's Premier League resumed with a thrilling encounter as Vihiga Queens faced off against Kispend Queens in their first match after the Christmas break. Despite a spirited second-half performance by Vihiga Queens, they failed to find the back of the net, with Kispend Queens holding on for a narrow 1-0 victory.

First Half

The match began on a shaky note for Vihiga Queens, who struggled to find their rhythm as Kispend Queens settled into the game quickly. Five minutes into the match, Kispend’s Lilian Adera capitalised on a defensive lapse, chipping the ball past Vihiga’s young goalkeeper Anne Wanyonyi from the left flank to give her team an early lead.

Anne Wanyonyi, making her debut as Vihiga’s starting goalkeeper, redeemed herself with an impressive display, pulling off several crucial saves to keep her team in the game. However, Vihiga’s attacking efforts in the first half were largely underwhelming, with limited attempts on goal.

Vihiga Queens grew into the game as the half progressed, showing dominance in possession during the last quarter. Ruth Khasoha came closest to levelling the score with a powerful, curved long-range shot, but Kispend goalkeeper Lavender expertly tipped it over the crossbar.

Second Half

Vihiga Queens returned from the break with renewed energy and urgency. They pressed forward relentlessly, creating chances early in the second half. In the 50th minute, Malda Susan almost scored directly from a corner kick, but Kispend’s goalkeeper punched the ball back into play. Diana Cherono’s follow-up attempt was also thwarted by the resilient Kispend defence.

Midfielder Amoyelete Martha stood out with her dynamic link-up play between defence and attack, as well as her accurate long-range shots. In the 70th minute, Claudia Ukiru narrowly missed the target with a powerful strike from outside the box. The closest Vihiga Queens came to equalizing was in the 74th minute when Providence Khasiala’s well-curved free kick found Diana Cherono, whose header missed the target.

Key Match Stats

• Attempts on Goal: Vihiga Queens registered 14 attempts, 7 of which were on target.
• Long-Range Shots: 12 of their 14 attempts were from outside the penalty box, indicating Kispend’s solid defensive organization.
• Cross Accuracy: Vihiga Queens delivered 9 crosses but only managed to connect with one successfully.

Outstanding Performances

• Providence Khasiala: In her first game as captain, Khasiala delivered a commanding performance as a centre-back. She recorded 8 clearances (including one off the line), created 1 scoring chance, and achieved a passing accuracy of 79%.

• Anne Wanyonyi: The young goalkeeper earned the Star of the Match title with a stellar display, including 4 saves, 3 clearances, and a 100% pass accuracy.

   

Despite their spirited efforts, Vihiga Queens were unable to break down Kispend Queens’ resolute defence. The loss highlights areas for improvement, particularly in attacking efficiency and finishing. However, the standout performances by youngsters like Anne Wanyonyi and the leadership shown by Providence Khasiala provide optimism for the team as they look to bounce back in their next fixture.

Feature Image Credit: Vihiga Queens