AFC Leopards 0-0 Mathare United: Former champs fire blanks at Nyayo

AFC Leopards started life in the SportPesa Premier League under new coach Dorian Marin with a barren draw against Mathare United in a closely contested match at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday.
In results from the other league matches played Saturday, Chemelil Sugar edged visiting Nzoia Sugar 2-1 in Awasi, whilst Posta Rangers and Thika United settled for a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Thika Sub-County Stadium.

Back at the capital, Mathare United were fast off the blocks seemingly in search of an early goal that never materialised.

Daniel Mwaura, who was featuring on the right hand side of midfield, was lively for the Slum Boys. With five minutes played, he easily beat his marker and send through an inviting cross into the area.

Leopards’ custodian Ian Otieno was forced to race off his line and gathered the resultant cross.

The home team thereafter threatened to score, first through Gilbert Fiamenyo at the quarter-hour mark.

The Ghanaian striker, who has five league goals to his name, would, however, scuffle his shot off the mark with goalkeeper Wycliffe Kasaya barely troubled.

Fiamenyo's striking partner Vincent Oburu also unleashed a rasping goal bound shot following a solo run off the left flank on the half hour mark, but this effort was also off the mark.

"Considering the conditions, our opponents’ hard work and the time we took to prepare for this game, I am satisfied with the result. I expect us to gradually improve in the coming weeks," Marin pointed out.

At the sugar belt, Harambee Stars triallist Masita Masuta gave visiting Nzoia Sugar a halftime lead. John Mwita levelled the scores after the restart, before Victor Majid secured maximum points for his side in the 55th minute from the spot.