KIBARANI UNITED FC 1 vs 2 MOUNTAIN STARS FC

In a gripping league encounter at Makande Primary School on 13 July 2025, Kibarani United FC faced Mountain Stars FC, ultimately succumbing to a 2-1 defeat. The match, which kicked off at 2:30 pm, saw Kibarani United put in a spirited performance but unable to secure the vital points at home.

Kibarani United adopted a 4-4-2 formation, which saw Cosmas Okumu stationed in goal, flanked by a defensive line comprising Brian Owino on the right, Oadwa and Yobra Obizo in central defence, and Mendy on the left. The midfield was structured with Joram Kimathi on the right, Ndegwa and David Caisedo centrally, and Amos Mageto on the left. Up front, Deluka and Sendi Lewandoski formed the striking partnership. This setup aimed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing the wingers to exploit the flanks and support the forwards.

The substitutes for Kibarani United included Sammy Kapelo, Ombongi, Seth, and Joggy, who were poised to make an impact should the need arise during the match.

The first half saw Kibarani United take control early on, but it was Mountain Stars who received the first yellow card in the 25th minute for a bad tackle, indicating the physical nature of the contest. As the match progressed, Kibarani United found their rhythm, and in the 35th minute, Amos Mageto broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range strike, assisted by Joram Kimathi's precise long pass. This goal sent the home crowd into raptures, giving Kibarani United a 1-0 lead as they headed into half-time.

However, the second half proved to be a different story. Just 10 minutes after the restart, Mountain Stars equalised in the 60th minute with a simple tap-in, showcasing their clinical finishing. The game continued to ebb and flow, and Kibarani United made their first substitution in the 62nd minute, bringing on Sammy Kapelo for Brian Owino in a tactical switch aimed at bolstering their defence.

As the match wore on, Mountain Stars took the lead in the 75th minute with another tap-in, leaving Kibarani United trailing 2-1. In response, Kibarani United made further tactical changes, introducing Ombongi for Deluka in the 65th minute, followed by Seth replacing Sendi Lewandoski and Joggy coming on for Deluka, both in the 77th minute. Despite their efforts, Kibarani United could not find a way back into the match.

The referee, Martin Jay, managed the game effectively, ensuring that the players adhered to the rules amidst a fiercely contested battle. Kibarani United's defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, but they will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.