Kayole Starlets continued their impressive run in the Kenya Women’s Premier League after defeating hosts Ulinzi Starlets 3–2 in a thrilling encounter on Sunday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex.
Ulinzi came in buoyed by a 3–0 victory over Madira Assassins and sat fourth on the log, while Kayole, fresh from a 4–1 win over Kisped Queens, were sixth. But it was the visitors who struck the decisive blows.
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Kayole began on the front foot, dominating midfield exchanges and causing constant problems on the flanks through the lively Magneta Ocharo. Ulinzi gradually settled after the 10th minute, with Lucy Nato and Charity Ekhavi testing the visitors’ defense.
The first major chance fell to Ulinzi in the 17th minute when Mercy Airo broke through and lifted the ball over the advancing Pauline Kathuruh, only for her effort to agonizingly hit the crossbar.
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Kayole responded with increased urgency and was rewarded in the 26th minute. Ocharo latched onto a loose clearance from Margaret Odiro and calmly slotted past Judith Omondi to give the visitors the lead.
Ulinzi pushed for an instant response, with Linda Ajwang shooting directly at Kathuruh before Chesang headed inches wide from a corner in the 35th minute. Kayole, however, held firm to take a 1–0 advantage into halftime.
Kayole threatened early after the restart when Ocharo drove into the box and forced Omondi into a save in the 47th minute. Two minutes later, Ulinzi nearly levelled through Chesang, but her header from Quinter Adhiambo’s teasing cross hit the side netting.
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Ulinzi eventually equalised in the 58th minute through Nato, who converted from the penalty spot after Hellen Ochieng handled inside the area. But the hosts’ joy was short-lived. Eight minutes later, Mercy Manguro curled home a superb free kick that left Omondi rooted as Kayole reclaimed the lead.
Ulinzi fought back again, making it 2–2 in the 78th minute when Quinter Odhiambo tapped into an empty net after Kathuruh spilled a shot from Lukhavi. Former Ulinzi player Kihara delivered the final twist, scoring in the 90th minute to seal a dramatic win for Kayole and stun the home supporters.
Kayole held on through stoppage time to secure all three points, sparking wild celebrations and lifting them to third place on 13 points. The defeat saw Ulinzi drop to fifth with 11 points.
Other Round 7 Results
• Zetech Sparks 1-1 Trinity Starlets
• Kisumu AllStarlets 1-2 Bungoma Queens
• Gideon Starlets 2-1 Kibera Soccer Women
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