KCB FC claimed a much-needed 1-0 victory over Michael Olunga Foundation (MOFA) in the Mozzart Cup round of 32 on Sunday at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County.
Newcomer Philemon Nyakwaka’s solitary goal in the first half was enough to seal the win for the Ruaraka-based side.
Speaking after the match, KCB Assistant Coach Elvis Ayany said: “We are grateful to God and the boys for our victory here today. We last won a match in November so, today’s victory is a confidence boost for the team ahead of the Kenya Premier League fixture against Murang’a SEAL next weekend. We wasted a lot of chances especially in the second half, an area we need to improve on in the coming round of games.”
KCB had clear chances in the first half with midfielder Farraj Ominde hitting the post before thrashing the ball over the bar in the early stages of the game. MOFA grew into the match but could not get past Festus Shikhalo who was solid in the goal post.
James Mazembe, who was introduced in the 22nd minute of the game following Shadrack Simiyu’s injury, played pivotal in the team’s only goal. His corner kick saw Philemon Nyakwaka rise high above everyone else to give KCB a 1-0 lead going into the break.
The home side was the better team in the second half but their inability to be clinical in front of goal saw them kicked out of the competition despite the massive support they enjoyed from their fans.
“Playing an academy like MOFA, you expect them to display fantastic football. Of course they did, however, our strategy was to come here and win the game to secure a place in the next round. Hopefully, we will clinch this trophy at the end of the campaign,” added Ayany.
The bankers have booked a slot in the round of 16 action and are set to play BIDCO United next month.