Chemelil Sugar have one leg in the final of the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) Top Eight tournament after stopping Thika United 1-0 on Wednesday night at Nyayo National Stadium.
The return match to determine who makes it to the final will be played on May 15.
Second half substitute John Mwita scored the all important goal for Chemelil in the 77th minute having been picked out by Willies Ouma with a stunning free kick right at the edge of the Thika United box.
There were few chances in both halves with the teams opting to be cautious in their attack.
At the tenth minute mark, David Kingatua shot over the bar after being fed by international Francis Kahata. Kahata himself missed to score, just five minutes later when he found himself with only Jairus Adira to beat in goal. Instead, Kagata took his time allowing the Chemelil defence to recover and with it went the opportunity.
The sugar millers also had their opportunities to go ahead and David Opondo together with his striking partner Georson Likonoh threatened with long range efforts that however did not bother their opponents.
Kahata had another chance to score in the 75th minute but his weak shot could not beat Adira in goal.
Thika had to pull out full back Dirkir Glay due to injury and it is something that appeared to have exposed their back line with Mwita being allowed acres of space to sprint and score the only goal of the match.
Despite trailing, Thika gave it all in a bid to pull back something from the fixture but it was too late as Chemelil ran away with the advantage to the second leg.
Chemelil Sugar coach Mike Mururi paid glowing tribute to his players after the match and said their fighting spirit was exemplary.
“The players showed a very positive attitude going into the match and were willing to fight for the victory. It takes a lot to beat an organised side like Thika United.
“Though we have an advantage going into the second leg, it is not over yet and we cannot begin to celebrate just yet,” he said afterwards.
His Thika United counter-part John Kamau insisted it is not over for his club.
“Today we have been punished for our mistakes. We had so many chances to finish off the game but wasted. However, I believe we can do it in the second leg,” he said.
Thika have to win the return match by a margin of at least two goals since Chemelil were considered to have been the away side. The other semi-final match will be played next Wednesday and will be between defending champions Gor Mahia and Tusker.
The winner of the tournament will walk away with a Sh1million in prize money.
By Gilbert Wandera, The Standard
