Kenya: Karuturi Hold Sofapaka to Another Frustrating Draw

Nairobi Star (Nairobi)

Muigai Kiguru

20 May 2011

Sofapaka’s poor showing in the Kenyan Premier League continued yesterday when they were held to a barren draw by visiting Karuturi Sports at the Nyayo Stadium.

Going into the match needing the maximum points on offer, Sofapaka could only fight for a third goalless draw in their last three matches, further derailing their title campaign.

Head coach Francis Kimanzi could not hide his frustration at the final whistle saying it is unfortunate that they have only managed three points from a possible nine.

“It is a big drift for us in the Premiership where we need to win all our matches to keep in touch with the rest,” said Kimanzi.

“We created a lot of chances today and played better than last time but our luck did not stand.”

“What matters is the result but we have just lost important points,” he added.

Sofapaka started the match strongly and Anthony Kimani should have given them the lead after 15 minutes but his left foot strike could only cut across the face of goal.

Two-time KPL top striker John Baraza hit the crossbar after 28 minutes as Sofapaka kept pressure on their opponents, seeking the opening goal.

Four minutes to half time, Humphrey Mieno saw his effort go wide as Sofapaka piled pressure on their opponents.

Karuturi’s best effort came on the stroke of half time when Henry Juma saw his effort come off the crossbar.

On resumption, Karuturi seemed the better side with clever displays from captain Khalfan Hamisi in midfield as they sought to erase their 0-1 loss to Bandari in Mombasa last weekend.

Kimanzi brought in midfielder Osborne Monday for defender Thomas Wanyama in the 77th minute and his impact was immediate as he helped pile more pressure on Karuturi by speeding up the proceedings.

It was Noah Ayuko who was impressive between the Karuturi posts as he did well to contain two corners that emanated from the unending pressure.

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