Bandari Stun Homeboyz With Late Mbaraki Comeback
- Bandari came from behind in dramatic fashion to defeat Kakamega Homeboyz 2–1 at Mbaraki Stadium, scoring twice in stoppage time to hand Bernard Mwalala his first win since returning to the Dockers’ dugout.
Bandari produced one of the most thrilling finishes of the KPL season with a sensational 2–1 comeback victory over Kakamega Homeboyz at a packed Mbaraki Stadium in Mombasa.
The visitors started the match on the front foot and nearly took an early lead in the 10th minute when Moses Mudavadi’s flicked header brushed the outside of the net. Homeboyz looked sharper in the opening stages, pressing high and forcing Bandari into defensive mode.
Bandari slowly grew into the contest after the opening quarter. Amza Ndayou and skipper Andrew Juma both had clear chances to break the deadlock, but poor finishing denied the hosts as the first half ended goalless despite end-to-end play.
At the start of the second half, Kakamega Homeboyz introduced Oliver Machaka and Samuel Otieno, a move that paid immediate dividends. In the 58th minute, Otieno slid a precise pass into the box for Machaka, who calmly tapped home from close range to give the visitors a deserved lead.
Bandari responded with urgency but were repeatedly let down by missed chances. Ndayou, in particular, squandered three clear opportunities in a frustrating spell that appeared to signal a long afternoon for the Dockers.
Homeboyz then dropped deeper, attempting to protect their slender advantage as Bandari piled on the pressure. Just when it seemed the visitors would hold on, substitute Mohamed Barisa produced a moment of brilliance in the 92nd minute, executing a stunning overhead kick to level the scores and ignite wild celebrations in the stands.
The drama was not over. Barely a minute later, Amza Ndayou completed the turnaround by cleverly lofting the ball over advancing goalkeeper Simon Masaka, sealing a remarkable comeback and sending Mbaraki into delirium.
The victory marked a significant milestone for Bandari head coach Bernard Mwalala, earning his first win since returning to the club.
Speaking after the match, interim coach Razak Siwa praised his players’ resilience and belief. He noted that persistence in the closing stages was key to securing maximum points, while also admitting the team must improve their finishing.
Kakamega Homeboyz coach Patrick Odhiambo lamented a late lapse in concentration, pointing to poor coordination between his defence and goalkeeper as the decisive factor in the loss.
The result sees Bandari continue their climb up the KPL standings, while Homeboyz are left to reflect on a painful defeat that slipped away in the final moments.
