Shabana FC were held to a 0-0 draw by Kariobangi Sharks in their FKF Premier League clash at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Saturday, November 1. The result sees the Kisii-based side drop two points after failing to break down a resilient home defence.

Shabana entered the match as favourites, looking to recover from a poor run that included a 1-0 defeat to Mathare United at Gusii Stadium on October 26. The Glamour Boys had started the season strongly, winning two of their first three matches and drawing once.

However, losses to Posta Rangers and AFC Leopards, coupled with injuries to key players like Brian Michira and captain George Onyango, have affected their momentum.

The match was closely contested from the start. Shabana controlled possession at times and tried to use their experience to dominate, but Kariobangi Sharks defended effectively. The home side, struggling for wins this season, relied on organisation and quick counter-attacks.

Shabana misses late chance

Shabana’s best chance came in the 81st minute when Austine Odongo’s strike was ruled offside. Coach Peter Okidi made three substitutions, but the visitors could not find a breakthrough.

Coach Okidi earlier acknowledged the challenges his team faced.

“Football has high and low moments, and this month has really been our low moment,” he said. “We believe we will rise to our high moments, which is winning. We are facing some challenges from injuries, but that’s no excuse for failing to get positive results. We are working hard to address these issues and improve our performance.”

Despite missing several regular starters, Shabana maintained discipline and avoided defeat.

Kariobangi Sharks, under William Muluya, celebrated a hard-earned point. The hosts have struggled in their opening rounds, sitting 14th with five points from one win and two draws.

The result leaves Shabana with eight points from two wins, two draws, and three losses. This fixture continues a pattern of tight encounters between the two sides since Shabana’s promotion in 2023, with previous meetings producing two draws and two Sharks victories.