Ulinzi Stars lose midfielder to injury after AFC Leopards friendly

FKF Premier League side Ulinzi Stars have received a setback as midfielder Lucas Maina is set to miss the early part of the campaign due to injury.

Maina sustained the injury during a preseason friendly match against AFC Leopards, which ended with a 2-1 victory for Ingwe.

Ulinzi Stars- Leopards intensity

The match was characterized by intense challenges, and Maina, who came on in the second half, picked up an injury during the game.

It has been confirmed by the club that Maina suffered a hairline fracture in the medial malleolus of his right foot.

As a result, he is expected to be sidelined for a period ranging from 6 to 8 weeks, depriving Ulinzi Stars of his services during the early stages of the season.

“Lucas ‘maish’ Maina sustained a hairline fracture medial malleolus on his right foot in today’s friendly match against AFC Leopards SC and will be out of action for 6-8 weeks. We wish the young lad a quick recovery.,” the club announced.

In the friendly encounter against Ulinzi, AFC Leopards fielded several new signings, including goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi, Brian Mandela (formerly of Mwatate), Emmanuel Lwanga, Boniface Munyendo, Kevin Kimani, and Yassin Sije among the starters.

On the other hand, Ulinzi Stars, coached by former AFC Leopards coach Anthony Kimani, featured Dennis Magige, Omar Somobwana, Benjamin Mosha, Faraj Ominde, Nicholas Omondi, Ben Stanley Omondi, and Michael Wanyika in their lineup.

Ulnzi Stars score

Ulinzi Stars took an early lead in the 10th minute when Enosh Ochieng converted a penalty. They managed to maintain their advantage until halftime.

In the second half, AFC Leopards intensified their efforts and executed a well-orchestrated play. Yassin Sije delivered a skilful cross, setting up Jaffari Owiti’s precise header, which equalized the score at 1-1.

As the match clock ticked past the hour mark, Boniface Munyendo’s powerful strike deflected off an opponent and found its way into the net, securing a victory for AFC Leopards.

Despite finishing the match with one player short due to Kayci Odhiambo’s red card, AFC Leopards are now preparing for their upcoming fixture against Talanta at Nyayo Stadium in the coming weekend as they aim to kick off the new season on a positive note.