A late Busia journalists team goalkeeper’s mistake earned their Bungoma counterparts a deserved 2~1 win in a much contested match played at Busia Stadium during the weekend. The match officiated by former FIFA referee Margaret Omondi started on a high note, the Busia team lead by Benjamin Wakoli and Elias Iteba in midfield looking more settled at home.
Playing at the right flank, Gaetano Pessa opened the scoring in the 22nd minute of the first half from 30 yard leaving Bungoma team goalkeeper Raphael Wanjala helpless to save the team.
However, Busia suffered a setback a minute into the second half when their dependable striker Franklin Bwire limped off the field to be replaced by Oduya Okong’o. A minute later, the now settled and rejuvenated Bungoma scribes levelled the score through Conrad Kuchio after receiving a pass from John Makuba alias Mentor Jay. Busia suffered another setback when their left fullback Joseph Abuje was injured, and was replaced by Collins Wesonga.
The goal that dampened the spirits of the fighting hosts came in the 68th minute when Hillary Wesonga’s 30 metres free kick was helped into the net by Busia goalkeeper Seth Ngero.
Talking after the match, Busia team’s captain Benjamin Wakoli lamented that they got more comfortable after their first goal, and forgot about Bungoma’s urge to equalize, though they learned their mistakes and promised to get back in the second leg.
“We got relaxed and were much comfortable after the first goal. We’ve however learned their strength which we ought to cub in Bungoma during the second leg.” said Wakoli.
Wakoli also blamed their defeat on injuries of some of his top players, telling their opponents not to rule them out when the two teams clash again in the return leg.
Bungoma captain Duncan Kwoba said they had come to Busia to win and they achieved the feat, telling their opponents to come with a basket of goals in the return leg in August. Busia team head coach Ignatius Odanga on his side blamed goalkeeping error, promising to pull a surprise in the return leg. Ford Kenya communication officer John Mondo said they came in to support the event as part of their long term plans to empower the journalists.
“Journalists working with some media houses are underpaid, hence this needs to empower them to venture into other productive income generating activities.” said Mondo. Spotted on the stands during the match was Kenya National Union of Teachers Bungoma Branch Executive Secretary General Ken Nganga.
The return leg is scheduled for August in Sudi Stadium, Nzoia in Bungoma County.