2023 champions Vihiga Queens dropped to third place after a narrow 1-0 loss to rivals Kenya Police Bullets in a closely contested FKF Women’s Premier League match held in Kisumu.
The highly anticipated clash saw a shake-up in the league standings, with Police Bullets climbing to second position with 18 points, while Vihiga Queens slipped to third with 14 points. Trinity Starlets and Zetech Sparks follow closely, both also on 14 points but separated by goal difference.
Post-Match Reflections
Reflecting on the defeat, Vihiga Queens coach Boniface Nyamunyamu admitted the match was tightly balanced, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities.
“The game has not been easy. At the end of the day, a winner had to be found in such a tight match. If you make one mistake, your opponent takes advantage. They got a corner and utilised it well,” Nyamunyamu said.
Despite the loss, Nyamunyamu praised his players for their tactical discipline and adaptability, particularly highlighting utility player Diana Cherono.
“I want my players to focus, and we hope to take maximum points in our next match against Trinity Starlets.”
Kenya Police Bullets head coach Beldine Odemba applauded her team’s resilience and determination, particularly amidst recent inconsistencies.
“I thank God and the team. The girls pushed themselves, but we haven’t been utilising our chances well. Moving second on the log is encouraging as we eye the league title.”
Odemba also celebrated the return of star player Mercy Njeri, saying, “She outdid herself in this match. We learn and fight another day.”
Upcoming Plans and Recent Performances
With no fixtures scheduled for the coming weekend, Police Bullets plan to regroup and fine-tune their performance.
Vihiga Queens, on the other hand, will look to recover from their second loss of the season. Their campaign has been a mix of highs and lows, with notable victories including a 3–0 win over Mombasa Olympic, a 1–0 triumph against Bungoma Queens, and a 3–1 success against Kisumu All Starlets. However, they have also struggled in stalemates, settling for goalless draws against Bunyore Starlets.
Kenya Police Bullets have also faced fluctuating form—bouncing from a commanding 6–0 win over Wadadia to a 3–4 loss against Zetech Sparks. Nonetheless, their ability to hold league leaders Kibera Soccer Women to a draw shows their potential.
Other League Highlights
In Nairobi, Ulinzi Starlets dominated Wadadia with a convincing 5–0 win at Ruaraka Grounds. Joy Kinglady scored a brace, while Diana Shakava, Mercy Airo, and Fasila Adhiambo added to the tally. New Ulinzi coach Olembe Tembe expressed his ambitions:
“My goal is to elevate Ulinzi Starlets to greater heights while also growing as a coach.”
Elsewhere, Bunyore Starlets secured their first win of the season with a 2–1 victory over Mombasa Olympic at Mumboha Ground. Goals from Clarice Audi and Sharleen Onjote sealed the win, with Grace Matsili scoring the lone goal for Mombasa Olympic.
