Kakamega Homeboyz FC claimed a 2-0 victory over Mara Sugar FC at the Mumias Sports Complex on Saturday, courtesy of goals from Harambee Stars prospect Moses Shumah and stand-in captain Estone Esiye.
The hosts got off to a perfect start when youngster Ben Stanley Omondi won a penalty in the fifth minute after being brought down in the box. Shumah confidently stepped up and sent goalkeeper Felix Adoyo the wrong way to give Homeboyz an early lead.
Determined to extend their advantage, Homeboyz doubled their lead before halftime. Esiye, wearing the armband for the day, struck a stunning volley beyond Adoyo’s reach, making it 2-0.
Mara Sugar had a chance to pull one back through Michael Isabwa, who threatened his former club with a run down the right flank, only to be stopped before he could cause any damage. At the other end, Shumah nearly bagged a brace at the half-hour mark, but Adoyo produced a crucial save. The visiting keeper was called into action again in the 35th minute, denying Pius Wangi to keep his side in the game.
Stanley Omondi picked up the first booking of the match for a foul on Adoyo as Homeboyz pressed to seal the win early. They went into the break with a comfortable two-goal cushion.
The second half saw immediate changes from Mara Sugar, with Brian Ochieng making way for Erick Juma. Estone Omengo was later cautioned for a rough challenge.
Homeboyz responded with a triple substitution at the hour mark, introducing Moses Mudavadi, Gospel Otieno, and Majak for Wangi, Omondi, and Glen Masava.
Simon Masaka received a yellow card in the 73rd minute, and two minutes later, coach Francis Baraza replaced Shumah with Hillary Otieno. Baraza made his final change in the 86th minute, bringing on Ambrose Sifuna for skipper Estone Omengo, who had put in a solid shift.
The final whistle confirmed Homeboyz’s crucial win, pushing them into the top eight as they gear up for clashes against Ulinzi Stars and Nairobi City Stars. Meanwhile, Mara Sugar will look to bounce back in their next fixture against FC Talanta.
