While the newcomers celebrated their fairytale start, Tusker’s struggles continued with a goalless draw against Mathare United in Dandora.
The story of the afternoon belonged to Ovella Ochieng, whose low drive past Mara Sugar’s goalkeeper was enough to secure Nairobi United’s first-ever top-flight victory.
The Awendo crowd may have backed the hosts, but the newcomers refused to be overawed. Assistant coach Salim Mohamed, deputising for head coach Nicholas Muyoti, was full of praise for his charges.
“We wanted to show the country that Nairobi United are not here to make up the numbers, and this performance proves it,” said Mohamed.
“Ovella’s goal was special, but what mattered more was the discipline and fight from the entire squad,” said Mohamed.
“We are building something new, and days like these give us confidence that we belong in the KPL,” said Mohamed.
For Edward Manoah and his Mara Sugar side, the match was a bitter lesson in efficiency. Despite dominating spells of possession, they failed to convert clear chances. “We played well in phases, but football punishes you if you don’t take your opportunities,” said Manoah.
“My boys are still adjusting to the demands of the top league, but they must realise that results matter more than style,” said Manoah.
“We will not panic after this loss. We will correct our mistakes and turn Awendo Green into a fortress,” said Manoah.
The defeat leaves Mara Sugar hovering near the bottom, with pressure already mounting on Manoah to turn results around.
At Dandora Stadium, Tusker FC were held to a goalless draw by Mathare United, a result that extended their winless start to the campaign.
With just one point from two games, the 13-time champions are under pressure to rediscover their edge. Head coach Charles Okere did not hide his frustration. “We created enough chances to win two matches, but the finishing let us down,” said Okere.
“This is Tusker FC; mediocrity is never acceptable, and I expect my strikers to step up,” said Okere. “We must respond quickly because if we allow this run to continue, it will be very hard to chase the leaders later in the season,” said Okere.
Tusker fans, known for their impatience, are already voicing concerns, and Okere admitted the team owes supporters a quick turnaround.
Mathare United, who have spent recent seasons battling relegation, showed renewed steel to frustrate Tusker. The 2008 champions defended deep, countered intelligently, and earned a valuable point. Head coach John Kamau was delighted with the effort.
“We faced one of the giants of Kenyan football and stood tall, which is a sign of progress,” said Kamau.
“Every clean sheet builds confidence. We are slowly building an identity based on organisation and discipline,” said Kamau.
“Our target is to be competitive, not just to survive. This draw shows Mathare United can challenge anyone,” said Kamau.
With four points already on the board, Kamau’s side is sitting comfortably in mid-table, a stark contrast to their past struggles.
The contrast between Nairobi United’s jubilation and Tusker’s frustration could not be sharper.
Meanwhile, the much-hyped Afande Derby between reigning champions Kenya Police FC and military giants Ulinzi Stars failed to live up to its billing, ending in a barren stalemate at the Police Sacco Stadium. the end
