FKF Premier League: Kenya Police Drop Points Against AFC Leopards, Title Race Tightens
Kenya Police FC missed the chance to extend their lead at the top of the FKF Premier League after a goalless draw with AFC Leopards in a rescheduled fixture at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. The result means that Police remain just one point ahead of second-placed Tusker, while Leopards stay sixth, missing an opportunity to climb into the top three.
A Frustrating Night for the League Leaders
Kenya Police came into the match looking to bounce back from a poor run of form, having failed to win their last two league outings. However, their attacking struggles continued as they failed to break down a resilient Leopards defense. Missing key forward Mohammed Bajaber, the Law Enforcers lacked the cutting edge in the final third despite creating multiple scoring chances.
From the start, Kenya Police pushed forward with intensity, hoping to get an early breakthrough. Their new signing, Clinton Kinanga, thought he had given his team the lead inside the first 10 minutes when he pounced on a rebound to slot the ball into the net, but the offside flag was raised, much to his disappointment.
Leopards Hold Firm, Waste Key Chances
AFC Leopards, despite sitting lower in the table, were not willing to let Kenya Police dominate. The visitors created several dangerous moments in the first half but failed to convert their opportunities. Baraka Badi came close to scoring after dribbling past AFC left-back Lewis Bandi, only for his effort to hit the post.
Eric Zakayo forced a save from Leopards goalkeeper Levis Opiyo with a powerful shot just before the half-hour mark. However, his involvement was cut short as he picked up an injury from the resulting corner kick, leading to his substitution.
FT
A barren draw in Machakos
Kenya Police 0⃣-0⃣ AFC Leopards#FKFPL pic.twitter.com/ZuyqICzl5j
— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) March 4, 2025
Leopards, who were aiming to break into the top three, started the second half with more aggression. Musa Oundo had a brilliant long-range attempt that beat Kenya Police goalkeeper Job Ochieng but crashed off the post.
Despite making three halftime substitutions, Kenya Police struggled to regain control of the game. Leopards pushed forward in search of a winner, with Kelly Madada and substitute Ronald Sichenje coming close. In the final minutes, Sichenje’s well-placed free kick was expertly tipped over the bar by Ochieng, ensuring the match ended in a stalemate.
Coaches Reflect on Missed Opportunities
After the game, AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani expressed mixed emotions about the result.
“Disappointed because I wanted the win, but we know that Police are a good side and we will have to take the point,” Ambani said.
On the other hand, Kenya Police coach Ettiene Ndayiragije acknowledged his team’s efforts but lamented their lack of finishing.
“We created so many goal-scoring opportunities and failed to score. Such tight games don’t give us that luxury,” Ndayiragije stated.
Impact on the League Standings
The draw means that Kenya Police now have 42 points from 23 matches, just one ahead of Tusker FC, who have a game in hand. Tusker’s inability to capitalize on Police’s recent slip-ups has kept the title race wide open.
AFC Leopards remain in sixth place with 35 points, having now played back-to-back goalless draws. The result leaves them trailing leaders Kenya Police by seven points, and they will need to put together a strong run of results to stay in the title race.
Upcoming Fixtures
Both Kenya Police and AFC Leopards will now shift focus to their Mozzart Bet Cup Round of 32 fixtures over the weekend. With their title ambitions still intact, both teams will be hoping to find their winning form as they prepare for the crucial final stretch of the FKF Premier League season.
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