Nyangweso unbowed despite unfair draw against Tusker

Ulinzi Stars head coach Benjamin Nyangweso was on Sunday evening a disappointed man after his side drew 1-1 with hosts Tusker FC in a Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match at the Ruaraka grounds in Nairobi.

Nyangweso’s men had taken the lead in the 44th minute through Enosh Ochieng, but a controversially awarded penalty to Tusker in the second half turned the game on its end.

Timothy Otieno made no mistake from the spot to level, after goalkeeper Jacktone Odhiambo was adjudged to have fouled the former on Ulinzi’s goal.

Before the penalty was taken, almost the entire Ulinzi players vehemently opposed the referee’s call, claiming Odhiambo had first handled the ball, before coming into contact with Otieno.

“I’m disappointed because we had managed the match very well until the uncalled for penalty was awarded midway second half. It was a big failure that distracted my players. Unfortunately we could not convert another open chance we had at the death, meaning shared points,” a visibly disappointed Nyangweso explained after the match.

However, the experienced tactician had a reason to boast about; noting reaping a point away to Tusker is a no mean feat.

“I’m proud of my players because they showed determination and character against one of the best teams in the league. This season we have drawn Tusker twice, a team coached by one of the most experienced coaches locally. We are talking of a denied win against such as side, which gives me some sense of pride,” he gloated.

Poignantly, Nyangeso believes his title ambitions are still unhurt, despite the Sunday setback.

“From the onset we wanted to win the title, and looking at the gap between us and the teams above us as at now we can play catch up with them. We have to fight on to the end,” Nyangweso whose side sit fifth on the grid on 35 points, four behind leaders Kakamega Homeboyz, said.

His opposite number Matano, was not keen to discuss the goal controversy, only acknowledging the match was difficult.

“It was quite a match, and we had to fight hard having conceded first. Ulinzi were quite determined and I’m happy we got something out it. We are somewhere in the league table but we cannot start talking about the title. There is a long way to go but so far so good,” said Matano.

Tusker are now third, on 38 points, just as champions Gor Mahia who however have two matches in hand.