First Step Taken: Mombasa United Beat Kariobangi Sharks at Mbaraki

Football returned to the centre of the conversation at Mbaraki, and we made our first step count.

A 2–1 victory over Kariobangi Sharks gives us the advantage after the first leg of our promotion play-off.

It was an afternoon of patience, big moments and an atmosphere that reminded us once again what playing in Mombasa means.

We had waited for this

There had been plenty said before a ball was kicked.

For us, it was finally about the football.

The opening half was tight and competitive, with both sides searching for a way through. We continued to push, but the breakthrough would have to wait until after the interval.

Then Mbaraki got its moment.

Mabeya breaks the deadlock

Peter Abiola was brought down inside the area, giving us the opportunity to open the scoring from the penalty spot.

Dennis Mabeya stepped forward and made no mistake.

One goal up — and suddenly Mbaraki sounded very different.

The noise lifted. So did we.

Waziri makes it two

We didn't stop at one.

Another attack down the flank created the opening, with Hassan Mzee delivering into the area for Waziri Shentembo to finish and double our advantage.

Two goals up at Mbaraki.

Kariobangi Sharks pulled one back late in the game, reducing the deficit before the final whistle.

Full-time: Mombasa United 2–1 Kariobangi Sharks.

Mbaraki, this one was yours too

There are afternoons when the people in the stands become part of the game.

This was one of them.

From well before kick-off to the final whistle, you gave the team your voice. Every attack had a reaction. Every challenge mattered. And when the goals came, we celebrated them together.

To everyone who came to Mbaraki, and everyone who followed us from across Mombasa, the Coast and beyond: we heard you.

Asante.

Only half the job

We leave Mbaraki with an advantage, but nothing has been decided.

There are another 90 minutes to play.

Our attention now turns to the second leg in Nairobi.

The message inside the group is simple: recover, prepare and go again.

First step taken.

Next: Nairobi.