Shabana FC head coach Peter Okidi has revealed that benching influential midfielder Keith Imbali was a calculated tactical move, one that proved decisive in their crucial 1-0 victory over KCB FC in the FKF Premier League.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe win, which marked Shabana’s 13th of the season, not only reignited their pursuit of a top-five finish but also revived slim hopes of an audacious late title charge.How World Cup dream influenced Harambee Stars’ assistant to reunite with McCarthyImbali, who joined the Glamour Boys during the mid-season transfer window from Kariobangi Sharks, was introduced in the second half and wasted no time in making his presence felt.The former Gor Mahia Youth midfielder unleashed a stunning 25-yard strike that sealed the match, helping Tore Bobe return to winning ways after a recent stumble.##NAJAVA_MECA_8916380##In a post-match interview, coach Okidi explained that the decision to start Imbali on the bench was part of a broader tactical strategy aimed at maximising impact while maintaining balance across all areas of the pitch.”Today we started Keith on the bench because we knew how important he is and the role he plays,” said Okidi.Nigeria head coach weighs in on Rising Stars’ U20 AFCON performance“It was a tactical approach because we knew he was going to win us the match either by locking or unlocking the tie, and I am happy he did the latter.”The victory now places Shabana nine points behind league leaders Kenya Police, with momentum slowly building in their favour as the league heads into the final stretch.##NAJAVA_MECA_8917067##Further detailing his matchday strategy, Okidi highlighted his intent to go all out in attack, fielding a striking duo of the in-form Austin Odongo and former 3K FC forward Oscar Juma.”We wanted to attack from the onset, get an early goal, and control the game. That’s why we opted to start with our twin-striker formation. We needed to bounce back immediately and restore confidence,” he added.Okere on what Tusker need to resuscitate title hopesShabana now shifts focus to their next assignment, a potentially tricky midweek encounter against relegation-threatened Bidco United on Wednesday 14, May at Gusii Stadium.
