Nakumatt shock Tusker in Machakos

Bottom side Nakumatt FC gallantly defeated 11-time champions Tusker 2-1 Sunday in a SportPesa Premier League match played under chilly conditions at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

Brian Osumba's rich vein of form was once more evident as he produced the sole goal for Tusker, but this was sandwiched by goals from Kevin Thairu and Cornelius Juma as the retailers enjoyed a rare afternoon of victory.

Nakumatt, who were recently acquired by politician Francis Mureithi, enjoyed a good afternoon, and they displayed unusual charisma and determination in spite of their inferior position on the SPL table.

Thairu was part of the aging but experienced Nakumatt squad that included veteran goalkeeper Lucas Indeche, midfielder Timona Wanyonyi and utility Moses "Dube" Odhiambo.

Yet they measured up perfectly against the fairly youthful Tusker squad captained by veteran Lloyd Wahome, but which featured youngsters Timothy Otieno, midfielder Matthew Odongo and the defensive pair of Eric Ambunya and Marlon Tangauzi.

They were ahead as early as the 16th minute, with Thairu turning in a well delivered pass from former Gor Mahia utility Moses Odhiambo.

This unexpected turn of events served as a sobering awakening for the brewers, who quickly began to build up attack, while reorganising themselves at the back in search of redemption.

The sound of new coach Robert Matano shouting instructions and gesticulating wildly from the touchline was an added incentive to the brewers who responded 15 minutes later through Brian Osumba.

The long serving Tusker forward, who has just returned from a lengthy injury layoff, positioned himself just inches away from the goal mouth to receive a cross from Boniface Muchiri.

This he guided home with one swift strike, leaving Nakumatt goalkeeper Lucas Indeche throwing his hands furiously at his defenders.

Thirteen minutes into the second half, the brewers capitulated once more, with Nakumatt midfielder Cornelius Juma collecting calmly a diagonal pass from Boniface Mukhekhe and sending it flying into the top right corner.

Not even the second half introduction of Edwin Lavatsa, Peter Nzuki and Jackson Macharia was enough to help Tusker out of their misery as they ended up succumbing to a second consecutive defeat and seventh loss of the season.

"This has got to be our best performance so far this season, and it shows just how much the team can do with the necessary support. Today I have seen players giving their best and playing better than they have in past matches. I hope this will be carried forward to our future games," said a delighted Nakumatt coach Anthony Mwangi.