In an emotionally charged battle at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Shabana FC faced a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat against Gor Mahia. The match, marred by controversy and a contentious red card, left fans in suspense until the final whistle.

Shabana FC, led by their tenacious players and passionate head coach Sammy Okoth, put up a valiant fight against the reigning champions. Despite missing key players due to injuries, Shabana FC displayed exceptional teamwork and resilience. Goalkeeper Erick Ongiri’s heroic saves kept his team in the game, making it a testament to his skill and determination.

The turning point of the match occurred in the 80th minute when Shabana FC’s defender Aduda Abisolom was shown a red card. The decision left fans and players alike in disbelief, changing the course of the game. Gor Mahia capitalized on the numerical advantage, and Rooney Onyango’s late goal shattered Shabana FC’s hopes of securing a draw.

Head coach Sammy Okoth expressed his frustration over the officiating and the impact of the red card on the match’s outcome. “Our team played exceptionally well, but the officiating decisions were disheartening. We were on the verge of a draw, but the red card changed everything,” lamented Okoth. Despite the disappointment, Okoth praised his players’ dedication and urged the fans to remain supportive.

Shabana FC’s supporters echoed Okoth’s sentiments. James Omari, a loyal fan, emphasized the need to continue supporting the team through thick and thin. “Yes, we lost, but our players fought with all their might. As fans, our role is to stand by them, no matter the results,” said Omari. Another fan, James Maribo, urged for patience and trust in the coaching staff and players. “We must remember that every team faces challenges. Our sponsors, Bangbet, believe in us, and we should too. Let’s be patient and see how the season unfolds,” urged Maribo.

Speaking of Bangbet, their unwavering support has been a ray of hope for Shabana FC. Before the season kicked off, Bangbet extended a generous sponsorship of Sh20 million to Shabana FC, showcasing their commitment to uplifting Kenyan football. The partnership signifies Bangbet’s dedication to empowering local communities through sports and nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

“Apart from the financial support, Bangbet provides us with essential resources such as footballs and kits, allowing our players to focus solely on their performance. Their commitment goes beyond the pitch; it resonates with our community, inspiring the younger generation,” remarked Okoth, acknowledging Bangbet’s pivotal role.

As Shabana FC navigates the challenges of the season, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of victory. With the enduring support from fans and the unwavering commitment from sponsors like Bangbet, Shabana FC stands resilient, ready to face whatever obstacles come their way. The journey continues, and Shabana FC, alongside their dedicated supporters and sponsors, are prepared for the battles ahead, both on and off the field.