Sofapaka, the newest side in the Kenyan Premier League, first took an emphatic lead in the 16-team log when they beat Chemelil 2-1 in an early match at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. But their short leadership was overhauled by Thika United who, later in the afternoon, triumphed 1-0 over Red Berets at the Sher Ground, Naivasha.

Sofapaka's glory came in the early afternoon match in the double-header televised "live" from the Kasarani stadium by SuperSport International. The 1pm kick off match was settled by Sofapaka goals from Zablon Amanaka (25') and Patrick Kagogo (56') while Chemelil's lone score was by Safari Mangu's 47th minute .

Sofapaka, the rookie team of the competition underlined, on and of the pitch, that they can be agents of the shift of balance of power in the Premiership. Their victory over Chemelil maintained an unbeaten run and second place on the table. At that same time the good organisation of the fledgling club was evident as their small band of jubilant supporters displayed passion for the game and glamour with their replica uniforms and booming drums on the terraces.

Alloys Safari Mangi gave Chemelil the match opener with a great free kick in the 47th minute but the manner of Sofapaka's leveling goal told the clear fact that they had the talent to hit back and win the match. Patrick Kagogo's reply was an execution few players in the Premiership are able to carry out. Kagogo was found by the ball at left flank on the edge of the box. It was a first-time half volley with the outside of his left foot aiming high over Chemelil goalkeeper Kenneth Onyach. The carving route taken by the ball was stunning to everyone and most of all the Chemelil goalie who could do nothing about it.

Zablon Amanaka, the discarded Kenya international stopper headed home the winner in the 78th minute from a Charles Odera's throw-in. But Chemelil shot themselves in the foot and perhaps squandered a possible point when Jeffers Odongo missed a 38th minute penalty which was punched out by Sofapaka 'keeper George Opiyo.

Sofapaka - 27. George Opiyo: 14. James Situma (captain), 3. Ezekiel Akwana, 5. Zablon Amanaka, 26. Frankline Osama, 28. Eric Bukavu (22. Evans Wandera), 21. Abdulrazak Abdi Simba Alwy, 23. Robson Dondo, 11. Charles Melubo Pilipili, 2. Anthony Kimani, 10. Patrick Kagogo Reserves not used - 29. Wilson Obungu, 16. Michael Lukhemi, 30. Kelvin Omondi, 8. Edward Kauka, 7. Gerald Mukhonza, 9. Bob Mugalia Scorers - 5. Zablon Amanaka (25'), 10. Patrick Kagogo (56') Coach - Robert Matano

Chemelil - 22. Kenneth Otieno Onyach: 18. Jeffers Odongo, 20. Aggrey Ondulo Mukwambo, 9. Charles Okumu Odera, 15. Kizito Issikhai, 25. Patrick Okumu Odhiambo, 13. Mohammed Mustapha Ogutu (captain), 4. James Maina Macharia, 10. Alloys Safari Mangi (12. Kevin Keegan),14. John Barasa, 19. Jacob Munene Mwangi Reserves not used-1. John Wahu, 3. Frank Collins Omondi, 16. Paul John Opou, 24. Elisha Odhiambo Omollo, 11. Michael Mururi. Scorers - 10. Alloys Safari Mangi (47') Coach - Mike Mururi

Referee - Calin Alusa

Source:www.kpl.co.ke