NAIROBI, Kenya, April 2 – Enoch Agwanda scored from the spot to rescue a point for 2009 winners Sofapaka FC against the side they deposed, Mathare United in a Kenyan Premier League clash of former champions that ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday.
Daniel Mwaura gave Mathare the lead in the 27th minute from Noah Abich’s corner at Nyayo Stadium but Agwanda; returning from international duty against Seychelles last weekend; restored parity eight minutes later from the spot.
Former Harambee Stars defender, Edgar Ochieng fouled speedy Burundi international Fiston Abdul Razak in the box to give Sofapaka the spot-kick.
The result saw Batoto Ba Mungu who have two games in hand; climb to eighth on five points same as Mathare who have an inferior goal difference.
Sofapaka could have headed into the break with a lead but Razak missed two open chances when he blazed from close range before Mathare keeper, Robert Mboya punched the Burundian’s powerful header out to maintain parity.
The 2009 champions resumed on a high but could not find the back of the net with Razak squandering a one-on- one with Mboya after Ochieng miscued a clearance to invite him in but once again, the opportunity went begging.
Mathare were then awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box after David Okello infringed Eric Mata, but Abich’s resultant set-piece rattled the woodwork as both settled for a point.
Batoto Ba Mungu, will now face Western Stima at Kisumu’s Moi Stadium while Mathare will be up against Nairobi City Stars when the league continues into the Easter weekend.
AFC Leopards seeking to bounce back after losing 1-0 to Ulinzi Stars host Thika United at Mumias Sports Complex on Sunday.
Ingwe players had threatened not to honour the fixture after boycotting Wednesday’s training demanding three months salary and bonus arrears but reversed the decision when they met club management on Thursday.
Leopards head coach, Zdravko Logarusic welcome suspended captain, Martin Imbalambala and winger Noah Wafula who both missed the past three rounds.
Ushuru FC will travel to Muhoroni Youth while limping Nakuru All Stars will be seeking to end their winless run when they invite Sony Sugar at Afraha Stadium.
Ten-time champions Tusker FC travel to Chemelil Sugar in the only Saturday fixture that will be televised live by on SuperSport.
