NSL: Nairobi United pip tricky Mombasa Elite to go third
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 24.05.24. | 16:15
Naibois had to come from a goal down to win and boost their promotion bid
Nairobi United moved back to the third position, a playoff spot, after overcoming Mombasa Elite 3-2 in a National Super League match played at the Kasarani Annex Grounds on Friday afternoon.
Naibois needed a win to keep their promotion hopes alive, and had did it by coming from behind to secure the victory.
Despite missing key players - keeper Richard Ebenyo and defender Hakim Ingosi, Mombasa Elite entered the game as underdogs.
The home team started strong, and by the second minute, Henry Omollo had a clear chance to score but missed.
Elite had a set-piece opportunity in the eighth minute, but keeper Ernest Muhammed saved Eddyson Hamisi's kick.
At the other end, Solomon Musumba saved Isaac Omweri's effort from a freekick.
Against the run of play, Elite took the lead in the 23rd minute when Emmanuel Lunalo chipped the ball over United keeper Muhammad after a swift counterattack.
Nairobi United responded with two quick goals in the 32nd and 36th minutes.
Defender Emmanuel Otieno scored first, followed by winger Omweri, turning the match in their favor.
Just before halftime, Elite leveled the score with a spectacular acrobatic goal, ending the first half at 2-2.
Three minutes into the second half, Elson Wangamati restored Nairobi United's lead by capitalizing on a defensive error.
The remainder of the game saw both teams searching for more goals, but the keepers were rarely troubled, leading to few shots on target.
Both teams made changes as the game progressed, but the new faces did not impact the match much and in the end, the duel ended in a narrow in for the hosts.
The win moves Nairobi United to third position but they could drop back to fourth if Naivas beat Kajiado FC on Saturday.
