Last-Minute Drama as Bandari and KCB Share Spoils in Top-of-the-Table Clash

Author: Ancent MuemaTue Dec 10 2024

A top of the table clash pitting Bandari against KCB divided by a 3 point margin promised to be a heavy encounter. KCB at the summit, having played a game more than their hosts, looked to keep it that way. This was especially as they missed key players Kahiro and Kinyanjui, making the task significantly more difficult.

The goal for the Dockers was simple, win by a 3 goal margin and clinch top spot with a game in hand. With a defensive oriented Coach Ken at the bench and the last 3 results against KCB ending in a draw, turning the tide would require a touch of magic.

Dismal First 45' for KCB

This was a half Coach Patrick Odong’o of KCB would wish to be archived and never retrieved to his memory. Lucky enough, the league official broadcasters Azam weren't covering the game.

KCB set up in a default 4-3-3 that switched to 4-5-1 out of possession and 3-2-5 in possession. However, to counter the opponent's approach, the team deviated from their structured game plan and adopted a more flexible, improvisational style as the match unfolded.

Bandari setup in a 4-2-3-1 default that narrowed centrally to a 4-4-2 diamond when pressing and 3-1-6 when in possession.

The Bankers were always kept on edge as they were pushed more into their defensive ⅓ for the better part of the half. They rarely progressed the ball as they failed to break the pressing lines setup by Bandari. Michael Apudo proved to be a pain in their compressed midfield as he made interceptions 3/3 two being in the opponents half. The Dockers controlled the game well, linking up with 64 completed passes within the half.

After the first 45 minutes, the visitors had registered 5 shots with only a single shot on target.

For the first goal of the match, KCB switched off at a corner kick situation, Wadri swung in an outswinger and Shariff Majabe connected well to send it past Faruok Shikhalo at the near death of the half. The game was now 1-0 in favour of the homeside.

2nd 45'

Going into the second half, Coach Patrick felt the need to introduce Michael Mutinda to help his team improve by taking off Faraj Ominde. He made another change shortly after, bringing on Vincent Ondabu to replace Patrick Otieno.

This was majorly a lackluster half with limited attacking intent from both sides. Bandari went deeper in defensive mode in their 4-4-2 diamond when they introduced Shassiri for Michael Apudo who had completed 83% of the 18 passes he attempted.

KCB now upped the tempo and increased their attempts in creating chances with zeal. From the 71^st minute they pushed their attempts to 3 shots with one finding the back of the net at the 87th minute with Derrick claiming the honours. Michael Mutinda of KCB put in a good shift by completing all his 15 attempted passes and intercepting the ball once in a move that led to the goal.