Ulinzi Stars secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Premier League leaders Bandari FC at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru, halting the team's three-game winning run in the SportPesa Premier League.
The match saw Ulinzi Stars dominate proceedings, with Enosh Ochieng scoring the decisive penalty in the 59th minute after Ezekiel Okari was fouled inside the box by Bandari's Nicholas Meja. Referee Anthony Ogwayo awarded the spot-kick, which Ochieng converted to give Ulinzi the lead.
Bandari responded with a tactical reshuffle, introducing Dairus Musaga, David King’atua, and Brian Otieno while resting key players. Their efforts paid off in the 69th minute when King’atua's 30-meter free kick rebounded off goalkeeper James Saruni and was finished by Yema Mohammed for his fifth goal of the season.
Despite creating chances, Ulinzi's Hassan Abdallah and Okari missed opportunities to extend their lead. However, Okari finally sealed the win in the 84th minute by capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble to score the second goal.
Bandari's coach Bernard Mwalala declined post-match comments, but team manager Wilson Obungu acknowledged the setback. "The defeat is a valuable lesson as we aim for our first league title," he said. Ulinzi's head coach Dunston Nyaudo celebrated the victory, calling it a "must-win" match against a resilient Bandari side.
Other league matches on the same day saw Vihiga United defeat Zoo Kericho 2-1 and KCB overcome Nzoia Sugar 2-0 in Machakos.
