Ian Simiyu Super-Strike Spares Tusker Blushes Against High-Flying Shabana

Substitute Ian Simiyu came off the bench to rescue Tusker FC from defeat, netting a crucial late equaliser to seal a 1-1 draw against an in-form Shabana FC in their FKF Premier League clash on Saturday evening.

The “Brewers” were staring at another frustrating defeat before Simiyu struck less than five minutes after being introduced, capitalising on a defensive lapse to beat the Shabana goalkeeper with a composed low finish.

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Shabana were dealt an early blow when Brian Michira  was forced off early due to injury, but it did not stop them from taking the game to the opposition.

Shabana had taken the lead early in the first half through Austine Musa Odongo, whose clinical strike in the 19th minute put the Glamour Boys ahead, continuing their bright start to the season. 

Tusker nearly equalised after nine minutes, with David  Polepole narrowly missing the target after a clever run and shot.

In the second half, Tusker grew into the game, with  Dennis Oalo coming close to equalising  shortly after the break, but his attempt sailed over the bar after a quick turn and shot.

The game then became dull, with neither team really creating inroads in the other side’s half, and it had to take until the 73rd minute for the other highlight to occur.

Shabana Captain George Orako Dizzo later suffered a head injury and was replaced by Justine Omwando Maasai, while Kevin Omundi also made way for Wycliffe Omondi as head coach Peter Okidi looked to inject fresh energy into the side and consolidate his side’s lead.

The changes paid off when Simiyu, introduced alongside Teddy Dok, pressed high to steal possession from a Shabana defender before slotting home Tusker’s leveller to send the home fans into celebration.

The result means Tusker continue their search for a first league win of the season, but the fightback offered signs of resilience for Okere’s men, who next face a tough away fixture.