Kibera Soccer Women edge Gideon Starlets in KWPL

Esse Akida scored the decisive goal in the 34th minute, tapping home a low cross from Pauline Atieno (Popo) after a slick move down the left flank.

Gideon Starlets, who had not played a competitive match in nearly four weeks, improved markedly in the second half and created several clear chances, but poor finishing ultimately cost them as they failed to find an equaliser.

Kibera coach and general manager George Bob Okallo was delighted with the three points despite the long absence from action.

“First half I thought we played very well, I thought we should have scored a few more goals. Second half we lost our rhythm, the game became a little bit difficult actually they had a chance to tie the game but overall we give glory for the opportunity to play and we're excited for the three points,” said Okallo.

“I’ll tell the team how proud I am because they played hard. I thought they played very smart, we were able to maintain good possession, maybe some of the decisions were not the best from the midfield, but with that being said we pressed really high, didn’t give the opponents the chance to build up from the back so overall very proud of my team.”

Gideon Starlets head coach Silas Wesechere admitted the defeat was painful, especially given their precarious position in the relegation zone.

“We came with a target to win this match because we are in the red zone and our main aim is to get out of that relegation zone, but because this one has now passed, we are preparing for the next match so that we have the three points to make sure we are safe," Wesechere said.

The victory sees Kibera Soccer Women leapfrog Zetech Sparks into fifth place on goal difference. Both teams now sit on 28 points, but Kibera still have a game in hand.

Gideon Starlets remain 10th on 17 points, three points from safety, while Soccer Assassins are ninth on 20 points, although they too have a game in hand.

With this result, Kibera Soccer Women have reignited their push for a top-four finish, while Gideon Starlets face an uphill battle to climb out of the danger zone as the season heads into its decisive phase.