In a gripping tournament neutral match held at Hamza Grounds on 20 October 2024, ROVA FC and Kings United played out a dramatic 3-3 draw, with ROVA FC ultimately triumphing 5-4 in the penalty shootout. The match kicked off at 11:00 am and showcased a thrilling display of football, with both teams demonstrating resilience and skill throughout the contest.
ROVA FC lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Omar Omar took his place between the sticks as the goalkeeper, while the back four consisted of Enzo Hillary on the right, Reagan Oduor and Dan Otieno as central defenders, and Johana Mburu on the left. In midfield, Mangala and John left operated as central midfielders, with Denno positioned as the attacking midfielder. The forward line featured Allan Mane on the right, Shaddy shaddy as the central striker, and Gloven on the left, tasked with creating chances and converting opportunities.
The substitutes for ROVA FC were not disclosed, but the starting eleven was clearly equipped to execute the tactical plan set forth by the coaching staff.
The match began with an early twist as ROVA FC took the lead in the seventh minute. A free kick delivered by John left found its way into the box, resulting in an own goal by a Kings United player, putting ROVA FC ahead 1-0. The momentum shifted as Kings United sought to respond, but Omar Omar was on hand to make a full-stretch save in the 22nd minute, denying a potential equaliser.
ROVA FC doubled their lead in the 29th minute when Mangala scored with a powerful header, expertly assisted by Gloven's precise cross. Just four minutes later, Shaddy shaddy added a third goal for ROVA FC, putting them in a commanding position at 3-0. However, Kings United refused to back down and managed to pull one back just before half-time, scoring a volley in the 43rd minute to make it 3-1.
The second half saw Kings United come out with renewed vigour. Just two minutes after the restart, they scored again, this time from a solo effort that brought the score to 3-2. ROVA FC's Enzo Hillary's momentary lapse in concentration contributed to the goal, as he failed to track his man effectively.
Kings United continued to press and equalised in the 56th minute with a stunning long-range strike, leaving Omar Omar with little chance to save. The match was now finely poised at 3-3, and both teams were eager to find a winner. ROVA FC's Allan Mane had a chance to restore the lead in the 58th minute, but his effort was saved by the Kings United goalkeeper.
As the match progressed, Enzo Hillary made a key slide rule pass in the 60th minute, creating a chance for his teammates, but it was not converted. Omar Omar showcased his goalkeeping prowess again by catching a cross in the 61st minute, maintaining his composure under pressure. The defensive unit of ROVA FC, particularly Dan Otieno and Reagan Oduor, made crucial interventions to prevent further goals, with Otieno clearing a dangerous ball in the 63rd minute and Oduor blocking a shot in the 69th minute.
With the match ending in a 3-3 stalemate after regular time, the contest moved to a penalty shootout. ROVA FC held their nerve, converting five penalties to Kings United's four, securing their place in the next round of the tournament. Omar Omar's standout performance in goal, including crucial saves and commanding presence, earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, highlighting his importance to ROVA FC's success on this thrilling occasion.
