Kijabe Hospital Football Club faced off against Kabete Legends FC in a tightly contested league match at the Simba Grounds on 16 February 2025, kicking off at 12:40pm. The match concluded with Kijabe Hospital securing a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a well-executed goal from Ruto Lodiongole.
Kijabe Hospital adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation, which allowed them to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing ample support for their attacking players. Michael Kahuro was stationed in goal, with a back three comprising Julius Mboya, James Mathu, and David Maina. The midfield was anchored by Nicholas Odhiambo and Owen Chimasia, flanked by Elly Shammah on the right and Leiyan Swakei on the left. Ruto Lodiongole and John Mandela operated as attacking midfielders, supporting lone striker Wilson Kamiru. The substitutes for this match included Samson Thuo, Gilbert Bukeyeneza, David Jomo, and John Mark.
The match began with both teams probing for weaknesses, but it was Kijabe Hospital who created the first significant chance. Leiyan Swakei attempted a shot in the 18th minute, but it sailed high over the bar, signalling their attacking intent. Just two minutes later, David Maina had a chance to put his team ahead, but his effort was saved by the Kabete goalkeeper, showcasing the defensive resilience of the opponents.
As the first half progressed, Wilson Kamiru had a chance to score in the 27th minute, but his shot went wide, leaving the scoreline unchanged. However, Kijabe Hospital's persistence paid off in the 29th minute when Ruto Lodiongole found the back of the net. He capitalised on a short pass from James Mathu, slotting the ball home from close range to give his side a crucial lead.
Kabete Legends FC responded with aggression, and in the 32nd minute, they received a yellow card for a bad tackle, reflecting their frustration at being behind. Kijabe continued to press, with Elly Shammah attempting another shot in the 37th minute, but it too went wide, as the first half drew to a close with Kijabe leading 1-0.
The second half saw Kijabe make tactical changes, bringing on Samson Thuo for Wilson Kamiru at the start of the half. The introduction of Thuo aimed to bolster their midfield presence. Just four minutes into the half, Owen Chimasia made a crucial clearance to prevent a potential equaliser from Kabete, demonstrating the defensive discipline of Kijabe.
In the 60th minute, Kijabe made another substitution, with Gilbert Bukeyeneza replacing John Mandela, as they looked to maintain their lead. However, Bukeyeneza found himself in the referee's book in the 72nd minute after committing a bad tackle, adding to the tension of the match.
Kijabe continued to make changes, with David Jomo coming on for Julius Mboya and John Mark replacing Elly Shammah shortly after. As the match approached its final stages, Kijabe was awarded a penalty in the 77th minute, but Owen Chimasia's attempt struck the post, leaving the score at 1-0 and ensuring a nervy finish for the home side.
Despite the late drama, Kijabe Hospital held on to their slender lead, securing a vital three points in the league. James Mathu's commanding performance in defence earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, as he played a pivotal role in maintaining the clean sheet and supporting the team's attacking efforts.
