AFC Leopards start season with frustrating draw against bogey side Sofapaka

Kenyan Premier League side AFC Leopards’ quest to begin their hunt for the elusive  FKF Premier League crown on a high note suffered a major blow on their matchday one fixture after they settled for a 1-1 draw against Sofapaka at Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday.

Ingwe, who are under a new management after former player Boniface Ambani was elected to replace Dan Shikanda as the new chairman, are waiting for the title they last won in 1998, ironically when Ambani was still playing at the Den.

Against Sofapaka, Ingwe went into the game with high hopes of registering victory in their season opener. However, they conceded an early goal when Djafari Satala drilled home from close range to make it 1-0.

However, it did not take long for AFC Leopards to draw level. Unmarked Boniface Munyendo thundered home a free header from the right wing, after Victor Otieno had done the delivery work from a corner.

Sofapaka were solid at the back to deny AFC

In the second period, AFC Leopards continued to search for the winner but Sofapaka remained solid at the back. Munyendo wasd provided with a great opportunity to seal the points for AFC Leopards but despite being on a-one-on-one situation, he hit his effort inches wide.

Meanwhile, in another match on Saturday, Kariobangi Sharks and Bandari settled for a 0-0 draw at Kasarani Annex.

On Friday, Tusker and KCB kicked off the season with the latter coming out 2-0 winners courtesy of a double from former Gor Mahia midfielder Boniface Omondi. Tusker could have at least scored in the game in the 60th minute but striker Eric Kapaito missed a chance from the penalty spot.

On Sunday, record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia will begin their quest to wrestle the title from Kenya Police FC with a home fixture against Bidco United at Kasarani Stadium while Shabana will be at home against promoted side APS Bomet.

FKF Premier League results;

Friday;
Tusker 0-2 KCB

Saturday;
AFC Leopards 1-1 Ulinzi Stars
Kariobangi Sharks 0-0 Bandari FC