Vihiga United’s survival dream in the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) received a major boost after their stunning 2-1 win over Chemelil Sugar on Saturday.
Patrick Okulo and Victor Ademba scored the vital goals for Vihiga United while Vincent Mahiga was the scorer for the Millers.
Chemelil Sugar had the first goal of the match at Bukhungu Stadium in the 25th minute through a powerful header by Vincent Mahiga.
Another clear chance for Chemelil Sugar was wasted by Gilbert Wangulu in the 32nd minute while Steven Okulo threw away the most open chance for Vihiga United in the 37th minute.
On resumption of the second half, Victor Ademba scored a goal that was protested vigorously by the visiting players. The assistant referee’s flag was up by the time Ademba was scoring but the centre referee seemed to have not noticed it allowing the goal to stand.
The Millers protested that Ademba was offside but the referee stood his ground allowing the goal to count nonetheless.
The hosts went ahead in the 75th minute when James Omino brought down Okulo as they tussled for the ball inside the box. Okulo rose to take the spot kick successfully as he beat Morgan Alube in Chemelil Sugar’s goal and that was enough for the struggling side to harvest the points on offer.
Vihiga United finally tasted victory since doing so against Mount Kenya United on March 16.
They had gone nine games without a victory and now have 24 points from the last 28 matches racing clear of the 17th placed Zoo FCwho are facing relegation with four more points.
What next?
Vihiga United will host Bandari on May 8 as Chemelil Sugar regroup again to wait for their next match against Gor Mahia on the same day at Moi Stadium, Kisumu.