Newcomers Nairobi Utd, Luanda Vila shine in NSL
The traditional story of newcomers and the fire in them in sporting competitions is slowly taking root in Kenya’s second tier-National Super League (NSL) with the likes of Nairobi United FC and Luanda Villa posting memorable results.
United who were recently promoted from the FKF-Division One Zone A is so far the story and the talk of two what after posting two successive wins just a fortnight into the 2023/24 campaign. With six points and four goals minus any conceded,the new kids on the block are in the early stages looking the business.
Nairobi United were 2-0 winners over lacklustre Kisumu All-Stars at the weekend. Last weekend, the newbies also saw off a former Premier league contender Kibera Black Stars 2-0 to underscore their mettle. Henry Omollo opened the scoring in the 35th minute, while Brian Lusamukha sealed the victory with a 77th-minute goal.
Elsewhere,Kajiado FC who struggled last season have also begun the new season with a bang after posting its second consecutive win. The Maa based side beat Mully Children’s Family 2-0 at their own backyard of Ildamat Stadium. With a goal difference of +3,Kajiado is keen to sustain its charge up top and now are joint top with six points.
Meanwhile, immediate former Premier League veterans Mathare United FC won their first win of the campaign following a 2-1 win over Mulembe United FC (formerly Vihiga United FC).The breakthrough for Mathare came in the 19th minute when Timothy Otieno was fouled in the penalty area. Mark Khadohi stepped up and converted it. The second half witnessed a resurgence from Mulembe United, as they leveled the score 28 minutes into the period. Kendrick Onzere netted a sublime long-range free-kick.However, Mulembe’s joy was short-lived as Meshack Otieno marked his debut with a close-range goal, capitalizing on a fine setup by Elias Cheruiyot.
Luanda Villa who thrashed Mombasa Elite 5-0 at home in the season opener, left with a point in their 1-1 tie with Naivas FC at Kenyatta Stadium (Machakos County).The Westerners under Tom Tera are looking good so far having conceded only once against experienced sides. This far,Luanda is third in the standings with four points.
In other matches, Mara Sugar and Migori Youth battled to a 1-1 draw at Awendo Green Stadium, while Vihiga Bullets and Dimba Patriots also played to an 1-1 scoreline. Kibera Black Stars recovered brilliantly to silence struggling Silibwet Leons 2-0 in Bomet with SS Assad FC shutting down newbies Rainbow FC 2-0at Ukunda Showground.
