Ouko header lifts Homeboyz past Sharks in Kakamega

Utility man Smith Ouko struck the lone goal of the match as new coach Paul Nkata enjoyed his first home win in Kakamega Homeboyz's 1-0 win over Kariobangi Sharks in their SportPesa Premier League (SPL) match at Bukhungu stadium in Kakamega, on Thursday.

The match, which was rained off on Wednesday with both teams tied at 1-1, was replayed at the same venue afresh on Thursday morning, with Ouko's header after 28 minutes settling the tense affair.

Ugandan tactician Nkata took over the mantle from Mike Mururi, who was fired alongside his assistant Peter Okidi together with the team’s technical director Alfred Imonje on May 28.

Mururi has since joined the Vihiga United technical bench, under head coach Edward Manoah.

“I have the proper medication for my new team. It has good players and if they are groomed well they can perform well in the league,” said the Ugandan after the win.

Kariobangi Sharks head coach William Muluya said his new signings are yet to gel with rest of the squad.

“The defeat will not in any way dampen my desire to drive the team to finish the second leg in a respectable position,” he said.

In Thursday’s match, Homeboyz fielded new signings including goalkeeper Gabriel Andika, signed from AFC Leopards and defenders Yusuf Juma and Benjamin Oketch both from cash-strapped Chemelil Sugar.

Also new in the outfit is attacker Jimmy Bageya who was unattached.

Homeboyz dominated the better part of the first half and they could have taken an early lead in the fifth minute when Allan Wanga beat defender Michael Bodo to the ball only to shoot wide.

Sharks, who played a more tactical game compared to their opponents, had a golden chance on 19 minutes when Patilla Omoto's left wing cross found Ovellah Ochieng in the box, but the Kenyan international failed to beat Andika.

Referee Lucas Odhiambo was forced to caution Ouko for a dangerous foul on Vincent Wasambo in the 23rd minute.

Homeboyz stepped up their attacks that saw Ouko head into the back of the net a pass from Esiye Estone to snatch the opener.

After the breather, Nkata rested Bageya, Estone and George Mandela and brought in Ali Ahmed, Wycliffe Opondo and Andrew Waiswa respectively.

Muluya introduced Bolton Omwenga, Francis Manoah and George Abege for Michael Bodo, Ovellah and Harrison Mwendwa.