"It was a rice field" Kamau criticizes state of Kericho Stadium, officiating in draw against APS Bomet
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 10.11.25. | 13:19
The Slum Boys defended their slender lead despite the soggy conditions, only for their hopes to be dashed at the death when Hansel Ochieng converted a late penalty to salvage a point for the hosts
Mathare United head coach John Kamau has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the level of officiating after his side were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw, by debutants APS Bomet in a mud-drenched encounter, at Green Stadium, Kericho.
The 2008 league champions appeared to be on course for their third win of the campaign after Ellie Asieche broke the deadlock four minutes before the hour mark.
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The Slum Boys defended their slender lead despite the soggy conditions, only for their hopes to be dashed at the death when Hansel Ochieng converted a late penalty to salvage a point for the hosts.
Speaking after the match, Kamau did not hold back his frustration, describing the circumstances surrounding the late spot kick as “outrageous and dumbfounding.”
The seasoned tactician equally raised concerns over the integrity of matches, hinting at deeper issues affecting fixtures that are not broadcast live.
"I am disappointed because it is a game we had wrapped up. I rarely disagree with the men in black, but the incident leading to that penalty was so disappointing.
"When matches are not televised, a lot of underhand deals tend to happen, and that is worrying,” Kamau lamented in a post-match interview with the club's media.
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Despite his anger over officiating, the former Posta Rangers coach commended his players for their fighting spirit under difficult circumstances, describing the pitch conditions as unfit for football.
"I must congratulate my boys, especially given the kind of pitch we played on. This was not a football pitch; it was a rice field. Still, I am proud of the team’s effort to get a point,” he added.
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Heavens had opened heavily prior to kickoff, leaving the playing surface heavily waterlogged and mucky, turning the contest into a battle of grit more than skill.
The draw leaves Mathare United sitting 12th on the log with eight points, eight adrift of leaders Gor Mahia, as Kamau’s men continue to chase consistency amid growing concerns over officiating.
