NSL Round-up: Mathare United go top as Mara Sugar, Naivas falter

Mathare United's hopes of an instant return to the Football Kenya Federation Premier League got a big boost following their 2-0 victory over Gusii FC at Gusiii Stadium on Saturday, November 4, 2023.

The Slum Boys are now at the top of the National Super League table after their round-eighth away match.

The home side had taken a 28th-minute lead when Kevin Onsongo scored, but a remarkable comeback from the Nairobi-based side saw them pick up maximum points away from home.

Mathare's goals

Former Sofapaka star Elly Asieche and Tony Odhiambo scored two vital goals for the 2008 Premier League champions, who were relegated to the second tier at the end of last season. Asieche scored in the 52nd minute before Odhiambo's goal in the 58th minute.

The Slum Boys, with both Mara Sugar and Naivas FC dropping points, are now at the top of 16 points, two more than the Sugar Millers. Mathare have, however, played one fewer game than their top rivals.

At Ildamat Stadium, Kajiado FC managed a 2-0 victory over Rainbow FC. Aboubakar Wangai scored the opener for the home side, but the debutants would have had an instant reply for an equalizer or even gone ahead as they wasted two glorious chances minutes after conceding.

Just before the halftime break, Kajiado netted the second when James Mutuku found the back of the net. 

In the second half, Rainbow had one great opportunity to deny Kajiado at least a clean sheet, but Mustapha Dulmant failed to score at close range.

Kajiado are now fifth with 14 points after eight games, while the NSL debutants are 14th with eight points.

Mara Sugar falter

Mara Sugar lost the top position after going down 2-1 to Mulembe FC in Vihiga. The Sugar Millers claimed the opener in the 27th minute when Reuben Okoth, with an assist from Brian Ochieng, scored before the home side equalized in the 39th minute.

Mulembe were awarded a penalty, which was converted by Eric Opiyo, as the first half ended with the teams at par. But in the second half, Mulembe managed to find the back of the net for the winning goal thanks to Godrick Kaduma's efforts.

Elsewhere, Naivas and Darajani Gogo shared points after a goalless draw at Kenyatta Stadium, while Mombasa Elite and Mombasa Stars also had to share points in a similar stalemate in the derby at Mbaraki Stadium.

Sunday, November 5, 2023 fixtures

SS Assad vs Nairobi United (Ukunda Show Grounds, 3pm)

Luanda Villa vs Kisumu All Stars (Mumboha Stadium, 1pm)

Dimba Patriots vs Kibera Black Stars (Wolves Den, 3pm)

Vihiga Bullets vs Silibwet (Vapor Grounds, 4pm)

MCF vs Migori Youth (Kenyatta Stadium, 3pm)