NAIROBI, Kenya – Ulinzi Starlets secured a massive 1-0 victory over rivals Kenya Police Bullets in a hotly contested Kenya Women Premier League (KWPL) derby this Sunday afternoon.
The crucial match, played at the Police Sacco Stadium, saw the hosts suffer a frustrating defeat that prevented them from climbing to the top of the league standings.
The single goal late in the second stanza was enough to secure the vital three points for Ulinzi, who showed resilience and tactical discipline to shut down the Police attack on their home turf.
Ulinzi Starlets’ coach Steven Ochola termed the win as a” Victory of Character”
The triumph was met with jubilation from the Ulinzi camp, with the Ochora praising his team’s focus and fighting spirit against their fierce rivals.
“This was not just three points; this was a statement of intent,” the Ulinzi Starlets coach said after the final whistle. “We came here knowing the pressure was immense, but the players executed the plan perfectly. Our defense was disciplined, and we took our chance clinically. A derby win against a team of Police Bullets’ caliber is always hard-earned, and this victory is proof of the character we have built. We celebrate tonight, but tomorrow, the focus returns to maintaining this push for the title.” He added.
The victory is a significant boost for Ulinzi Starlets, who now ascend to fourth place on the KWPL table. Their performance against Police will be seen as a major statement of intent as the league season progresses, proving they can grind out results against the top contenders.
For Kenya Police Bullets, the result is a bitter pill to swallow. Having started the day with the opportunity to leapfrog current leaders Trinity Starlets, the home defeat means they remain stuck in third place with 15 points.
Talking to the media shortly after the game, Police Bullets head coach, David Bujego blamed inefficiency and lack of rhythm.
Coach Bujego, speaking with a measured tone after seeing his side’s perfect record shattered at home, focused his remarks on the team’s efficiency in the final third.
“This game ultimately came down to the clinical moments,” the coach told the medi. “We created the necessary volume of opportunities, but unfortunately, we failed to execute in the final third. We believe the team lacked the necessary match rhythm today, perhaps showing a bit of rustiness after our extended pause in league fixtures.” He added.
Police now trail the league pacesetters, Trinity Starlets, by two points, making this missed opportunity a costly one in the tight race for the KWPL title.
The Bullets will need to quickly regroup and find their scoring boots ahead of their next fixture to keep pressure on the top two.
The KWPL continues to be one of the most unpredictable leagues in the region, with the gap at the top remaining razor-thin after this weekend’s dramatic derby action.
