Bandari held in second Zanzibar preseason friendly

Bandari completed their four-day tour of Zanzibar with a 3-3 draw against Malindi at Amaan Stadium on Sunday.

The Dockers, who had beaten reigning Zanzibar champions Jeshi la Kujenga Uchumi (JKU) 3-1 on Saturday, let a two goal lead slip to settle for the stalemate.

Felly Mulumba and Nicholas Mejja handed the visitors a 2-0 lead at half time before a brace from Mohamed Said restored parity. Abdalla Said sent the hosts ahead in the 84th minute but there was a late twist as Yema Mwana equalized for Bandari.

Bandari started the game on the front foot but it took them 25 minutes to find the breakthrough when Mulumba calmly slotted from the spot after Abdalla Hassan was brought down in the box.

Malindi sought a reply but missed two golden opportunities through Mohamed Said. Mejja punished them to double his side's lead heading to the break.

The hosts returned the more organised outfit after the restart and deservedly netted their first goal in the 57th minute through Mohammed Said who added his second in the 75th. It was Malindi who then got their third with six minutes left through Abdalla Said.

Bandari fought gallantly in the remaining minutes and their efforts were rewarded in the 89th minute when Yema Mwana headed home Shaban Kenga's cross.

Bandari Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Edward Oduor thanked their main shirt sponsor Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for facilitating the trip as well as the Zanzibar football authorities for their hospitality during their stay there.

“This is a very successful trip which will help our team to do better in the upcoming SportPesa Premier League season,” said Oduor.  

The Dockers are expected back in the country on Monday to continue with their preseason training.