Narrow win keeps Nakumatt’s survival hopes alive
By VINCENT OPIYOMidfielder Tom Adwar’s free kick 25 yards out was enough for Nakumatt to see-off Ushuru 1-0 in the first leg of the SportPesa Premier League (SPL) Promotion/Relegation Playoff at Camp Toyoyo grounds on Friday.
Adwar struck in the 21st minute after Joe Waithira was fouled by David Otieno outside the box to keep Nakumatt’s survival hopes alive.
Nakumatt will head into the return leg next Sunday needing a draw to remain in the top flight league after finishing 16th last season.
Ushuru, who came third in the National Super League (NSL) standings, on their part must win the reverse fixture with more than a goal to make a return to the top division.
RELENTLESS ONSLAUGHT
Nakumatt started brightly and almost took the lead after six minutes but Timonah Wanyonyi’s teasing shot was kept out by Ushuru goalkeeper Kennedy Obwanda.
On the other end of the field, Ushuru’s Bill Oporia was denied by the crossbar five minutes to halftime before youthful Alex Sunga hit the side net after weaving his way into the box from the right flank.
Ushuru, who fell 2-0 to Thika United in the first leg playoff last year, took command of the game in the final 10 minutes with a relentless onslaught on Nakumatt, but to no avail.