Shabana win against Ulinzi Stars can be catalyst to better performances - Okidi

Shabana FC head coach Peter Okidi believes Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars could mark the start of a long-awaited turnaround after enduring five matches without a win. The narrow but priceless result at the Ulinzi Sports Complex at the weekend eased pressure on the ‘Glamour Boys’ and restored optimism within the camp.

Okidi praised the club’s supporters, acknowledging their frustration in recent weeks but urging them to remain steadfast.

“Our fans have been upset with the poor results, and we felt that pressure as a team,” he said. “They must understand that football has highs and lows. What matters is standing with the team through it all. We hope today’s win signals the beginning of a positive spell.”

Captain Mark Okola delivered the decisive moment in a tight, fragmented early kick-off, rising highest in the 17th minute to nod in a well-placed Bronson Nsubuga corner. The defender’s header secured Shabana’s first league win since late September.

The match, however, ended on a worrying note after Ulinzi defender Bildad Abonga suffered an apparent head injury and had to be stretchered off.

Okidi credited the playing surface and his players’ freedom of expression for the improved performance.

“The pitch at Ulinzi Complex allows for good football, and I encouraged the boys to express themselves,” he noted. “We were also aware that Ulinzi had changed their style, so we defended intelligently to neutralize their technically gifted trio. We avoided unnecessary fouls because they have Boniface Muchiri, who is excellent on set pieces. Credit to our goalkeeper for organizing the wall well when needed.”

The win -Shabana’s third of the season -lifted them to seventh on 11 points. Ulinzi Stars, meanwhile, remain winless under interim coach Stephen Ocholla and slip deeper into trouble, sitting 17th with just six points.