Thika, Mathare win in relegation dogfight

The fight against relegation from the SportPesa Premier League on Sunday took an interesting twist as endangered teams Mathare United and Thika United both overcame their opponents in Nairobi to earn a lifeline in the battle.

Mathare United beat Nzoia Sugar 1-0 at Moi International Sports Center in Kasarani, while Thika recorded a similar result against former champions Tusker at Ruaraka grounds.

Western Stima drew 2-2 with Ulinzi Stars at their Kisumu home ground, although they remain second last on the log and in danger of relegation.

AFC Leopards, the other team that was in danger of relegation, beat league debutants Nakumatt 1-0 to shield themselves from relegation. Andrew Tololwa notched a first half goal which was enough to help his team gain three points and complete a season double over Nakumatt.

In Mombasa, Bandari and Posta Rangers played to a goalless draw, while hosts Sony Sugar beat Sofapaka 1-0 in Awendo.

And in Nakuru, league debutants Zoo Kericho came from a goal down to hold champions elect Gor Mahia to a 1-1 draw. Zoo Kericho’s Kepha Andati scored in the 70th minute to cancel out Medie Kagere’s goal for Gor in the 60th minute.

Victories for Mathare and Thika eliminated all possibility of bottom-placed Muhoroni Youth surviving the drop.