Division 2 side Bandari Youth secured a narrow 1-0 win against Simba Apparel and won the Bingwa Fest coast edition on Sunday at Mbaraki stadium.
Alex Shikanga’s side took an early lead through Yusuf Ali after a teamwork pass at the edge of the box before a slow shot from the midfielder in the 26th minute of the game.
Despite the early goal, Bandari controlled the game, especially in the midfield, something that forced Simba Apparel to make changes before halftime.
Apparel came in the second half with full force looking for an equalizer but Bandari youth goalkeeper Francis Katana made crucial saves denying the Changamwe-based side any hope of taking the game to penalties.
“They cheered us against Denmark, in the semi-finals, they thought we were underdogs heading to the final but we killed them tactically,” Bandari Youth Coach Alex Shikanga said in a post-match interview.
On the other hand, Simba Apparel head coach Patrick Nyale said: “Bandari have used their chances very well and defended their goal so I congratulate them even if it hurts to lose in the final.”
Meanwhile, Denmark FC defeated Congo Boyz 3-2 in the play-off and secured a third-place finish.
Elsewhere, KCN Poly were crowned champions in women’s football having won their final game against Destiny 1-0 thanks to the solo effort from Phibi Baraza.
“In local football, it is rare to see sponsors support women it is only men who receive the support but we thank Betika for coming through the one million will motivate the girls to play with confidence and stress-free,’’ said KCN Poly head coach Julian Kioko.
Her sentiments were echoed by Betika brand Manager Eric Mwiti who said the coast region is full of talented players, especially girls, and their target is to help them to showcase what they have at the international level.
“Bingwa Fest brings four categories, we have participated in three categories, football, rugby, and basketball, but we are looking forward to participating in athletics on the 19th of this month,’’ said Mwiti.
All eyes are now on Nairobi for the seventh edition of Bingwa Fest before the internationals.
In other disciplines, the Money Team defeated the Unicorns 11-12 in the women’s basketball finals, while Free Nation smashed KNCP 22-10 in the men’s final.
Mombasa Sports Club claimed the rugby title with a solo try against TUM Marines while Hunters Hill dominated the women’s finals with 51-0 against Mazeras Starlets.
The winners who went home with one million shillings each will represent the coast region later this year in national games. The runners-up received sh.500,000 each and third place received sh.250,000.
Additional reporting by: Patriciah Wayua