John Kamau © Odhiambo Rodgers
John Kamau © Odhiambo Rodgers

Kamau reveals second-half tactical masterstroke in Mathare’s win over Homeboyz

Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 16.11.25. | 14:51

Before the match, Mathare had scored only five goals in eight outings, ranking among the league’s lowest scorers alongside Ulinzi Stars and Bidco United

Mathare United head coach John Kamau has attributed his side’s emphatic 2–0 victory over Kakamega Homeboyz to a decisive tactical shift executed at halftime, transforming a cagey start into a commanding second-half performance on Saturday, 15 November at Kasarani Stadium.

Kamau, a seasoned tactician with a reputation for in-game adaptability, revealed that Mathare abandoned their diamond formation after struggling to assert control in the opening stanza.

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The tactical switch saw the Slum Boys stretch play into the wide channels, an adjustment that immediately unsettled Homeboyz.

At the restart, Kamau introduced Musa Masika and Paul Kinyanjui for Dennis Okoth and Steve Kamari, changes that paid dividends almost instantly. 

Mathare seized control of the tempo and began to probe Homeboyz with purpose.

Their breakthrough arrived just eight minutes into the second half. 

Masika initiated the move by releasing John Nyawir on the flank, whose dangerous cross forced Eugene Ochieng to turn the ball into his own net under pressure.

Twelve minutes later, Mathare doubled their advantage through Daniel Ange, sealing the win in style.

Nyawir and Masika combined brilliantly again on the left, before the former floated a precise delivery into the area.

Ange rose above the Homeboyz defence to plant a powerful header past goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe, ensuring maximum points for the 2008 champions.

Speaking to Azam Sports after the match, Kamau explained the tactical adjustments behind his side's victory.

"We played a diamond formation which was difficult for us because our opponents were switching play well, leaving their fullbacks unmarked.

We noticed they left spaces behind, so we decided to exploit them. Bringing in wingers gave us an edge both in attack and defence,” he explained.

Kamau also expressed relief at seeing his team finally convert their chances after enduring a frustrating spell in front of goal.

Before the match, Mathare had scored only five goals in eight outings, ranking among the league’s lowest scorers alongside Ulinzi Stars and Bidco United.

"We have not been scoring despite creating chances in previous matches. I am happy we finally did it today, and in emphatic fashion. It was a matter of patience because we knew the goals would eventually come,” he added.


tags

Mathare UnitedJohn KamauKakamega HomeboyzFootball Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL)

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