Naivas FC players were left scratching their heads after suffering a third league defeat in four games, falling 2-1 to APS Bomet at Dandora Stadium on Saturday.The Black Berets took the lead with an early goal from Erick Mwirithi with James Kaleha adding a second before halftime. Vincent Likare scored Naivas’ only goal just before the break.Playing their first match of the season at Dandora Stadium, APS Bomet struggled to adapt to the artificial turf, with players finding it difficult to control the ball and occasionally slipping.##NAJAVA_MECA_8457019##Naivas controlled the tempo early and nearly scored in the fifth minute, but Likare’s pass to Rashid Moyo was mishandled, and the ball ended up in the hands of APS Bomet goalkeeper Bob Cetric.Two minutes later, Abuti Cosmos dribbled past his markers, setting up a one-on-one with Naivas keeper Jacob Osano, but his shot from the centre of the box went over the crossbar.Both teams continued to seek scoring opportunities, but Naivas had the best chance to take the lead in the 21st minute after Lucky Randu won a free kick at the edge of the box.However, Newton Ochieng’s shot was comfortably saved by Cetric.Pressure mounting on Jackline Juma as Sharks force Talanta to drop points againIn the 40th minute, a poor clearance from Bryson Juma gave APS Bomet a corner. Philip Wasai delivered it to Mwirithi, who headed it in to give his team the lead.Just three minutes later, a controversial referee decision awarded APS Bomet a penalty, which Kaleha converted, doubling their advantage.As APS Bomet fans celebrated, Naivas won a penalty of their own, which Likare converted to cut the deficit to 2-1 before halftime.Elvis Ayani made two changes to Naivas’ lineup after the break, but they were not enough to break through APS Bomet’s solid defense.Both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Naivas feeling aggrieved by the referee’s decisions, especially after Nixon Ouma and Rashid Moyo were fouled in the penalty area, with no calls given.Despite late pressure from Naivas, APS Bomet held on to secure the win and returned to winning ways.Complaints rise over safety of Dandora Stadium opened just eight months agoAfter the game, APS Bomet coach Evans Mafuta praised his team’s performance and discipline, saying, “It was a tough game, but I’m glad we got all three points. Our focus now shifts to the next round, where we aim to continue our good form.”Alongside Vihiga United, Bomet remains unbeaten on the field, although they forfeited last week’s match against Mully Children Family (MCF) due to the absence of a fully equipped ambulance.Darajani Gogo Walks Out Against Muhoroni YouthDarajani Gogo walked off the pitch in their match against Muhoroni Youth, with the hosts leading 2-1.Gogo claimed Muhoroni Youth instructed ball boys to hide standard size-5 balls and introduced size-4 balls, which are not sanctioned for high-profile games.The complaint came after Hillary Odhiambo scored in the 86th minute to put Muhoroni ahead.Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat told to take more risks and invest in young playersEarlier, Ian Motanda had opened the scoring for Gogo in the 12th minute, with Edwin Odhiambo equalizing shortly after halftime.Gogo added that the entire afternoon at Muhoroni was frustrating, noting that their videographer was prevented from livestreaming the game, and ball boys allegedly delayed play to Muhoroni’s advantage.##NAJAVA_MECA_8466558##Responding to the claims, Muhoroni CEO Thomas Omsasia suggested visiting teams look for excuses. “They scored using a size-4 ball, but when Muhoroni scores, it becomes an issue. Teams should focus on playing football instead of creating distractions,” he told Mozzart Sport.
