Sofapaka survive big scare from All Stars
Basement side Nakuru All Stars threw away a three goal lead to settle for a 3-3 draw with former league champions Sofapaka in a Kenyan Premier League match at the Nyayo National Stadium on Friday evening.
A brace from former Kenyan international Patrick Oboya and another goal by Boniface Akenga appeared to put Nakuru side in the driver’s seat but Sofapaka clawed their way back into the match with goals from Fwadi Nyayisenga, Miamy Mbakiye and John Baraza.
The GOtv Shield cup holders were lethargic in the entire first half and duly fell behind in the third minute when Oboya scored the first of his two goals.
Oboya, who was appearing in the starting lineup for the first time since he joined the club in June, displayed brilliant dribbling skills before beating goalkeeper David Okello with a well taken shot.
The former Gor Mahia striker returned to the score sheets in the 17th minute when he received an inviting cross from the left which he easily tapped home.
SOFAPAKA COMEBACK
Two minutes later, All Stars found the back of the net again, this time through midfielder Akenga who capitalized on a blunder by the Sofapaka custodian.
Sofapaka began their comeback in the 37th minute when Nyayisenga skillfully dispatched a free kick above opposition’s defensive wall and past goalkeeper Shabban Odhoji.
In the second half, Sofapaka coach Sam Timbe introduced veteran striker Baraza and Evans Maliachi a move which somehow stabilized the team.
Mbakiye would further trim All Stars advantage with a goal in the 83rd minute to give Batoto ba Mungu a new lease of life.
But it was Baraza who came through for Sofapaka moments before the final whistle to save his team from what appeared to be sure defeat.
“I am very disappointed. To lead three by goals and end up with only one point shows that the team lacks character,” All Stars coach Peter Okidi said after the match.