Kirinyaga: Fortune Sacco FC suffered a disappointing loss in their opening home game of the National Super League (NSL) at Kianyaga Stadium, going down 1-0 to Naivas FC. The visitors sealed the win in the 53rd minute through striker Francis Nambute, after a goalless first half in which both teams created few scoring opportunities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Fortune Sacco, who finished fifth last season just behind Naivas in fourth, had hoped for a stronger start. However, the setback continued a poor run against Naivas, who are yet to lose to them in previous league encounters. Fortune Sacco's head coach, Shem Ondiek, admitted his side made tactical errors.
"The game was good, and since it is a competition, everyone comes to win. But we made a mistake tactically because we approached the game knowing our rivals were stronger," he said. The coach attributed the goal to a defensive lapse and poor communication with the goalkeeper, which handed Naivas the chance to score. Afterward, the visitors tightened their defense and employed time-wasting tactics to frustrate Fortune Sacco's efforts for a comeback.
Looking ahead, Ondiek urged his players to remain focused on the season. "The league is like a marathon; one mistake cannot determine the entire outcome," he noted. Ondiek, who recently took over from the late Sylvester Odero-who tragically passed away in a road accident-promised fans improved performances as he continues to adapt to his new role.
Naivas FC coach, Elvis Ayane, praised his team for securing three valuable points away from home. "We knew Fortune Sacco were well prepared and expected a tough game, just like last season at this same venue. I am proud of my players for fighting hard and taking the three important points," he said.