AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has thrown his weight behind midfielder Brian Wanyama following a missed penalty that denied Ingwe a crucial victory against Bandari FC on Sunday afternoon at the Mbaraki Sports Club.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsIn a tightly contested FKF Premier League fixture, Leopards were presented with a golden opportunity to claim maximum points late in the second half after Ronald Sichenje was brought down in the box by Bandari’s Swaleh Pamba.Mashemeji Derby date confirmedWanyama stepped up to take the resultant spot kick, but his effort was expertly saved by two-time Mozzart Bet Cup winner Farouk Shikalo, preserving a 0-0 stalemate.The miss proved costly for AFC Leopards, who were looking to close the gap on the top five, though with a spare game.##NAJAVA_MECA_8934391##The draw saw the Nairobi-based side remain sixth on the log with 46 points, Bandari, meanwhile, stagnated in eighth on 42 points.Despite the disappointment, Ambani was quick to shield Wanyama from criticism, offering a composed and supportive perspective during the post-match press conference.’I really don’t deserve to wear this jersey’ – Tusker midfielder after 7-1 loss“I cannot blame a player for missing a penalty,” Ambani stated. “Globally, even the most accomplished and seasoned footballers have missed from the spot. It’s part of the game.”The former Wazito FC head coach went on to explain the circumstances surrounding the selection of Wanyama for the decisive kick, revealing that regular penalty takers Kayci Odhiambo and Victor Omune had already been substituted.##NAJAVA_MECA_8935675##“Unfortunately, our primary options had been withdrawn by the time the penalty was awarded. Brian had to step up in a high-pressure moment, and that is never easy without prior preparation,” the former Kenya international noted.While the spotlight remained fixed on the missed opportunity, Ambani chose to highlight Wanyama’s overall performance, applauding the midfielder’s contribution throughout the match.Shabana rakes in Ksh 1.4m despite home loss to Mara Sugar“Beyond the penalty miss, Brian had an outstanding game. His work rate and composure in midfield were commendable. That, to me, outweighs one missed chance. It’s now up to us, as a team, to rally behind him, boost his confidence, and ensure he returns stronger,” he affirmed.
