The "Eastlands Spirit" was alive and kicking in Homa Bay this Sunday as Kayole Starlets clawed their way back from the brink to snatch a dramatic 3-2 victory against Gideon Starlets. It was a match that had everything—screamers, defensive howlers, and a never-say-die attitude that secured Kayole’s first win of the 2025/2026 FKF Women Premier League season.

Heading into the fixture, Kayole were the underdogs, winless in their last four outings and facing a hostile crowd. But football is played on grass, not paper. The visitors showed superior composure, turning what looked like another frustrating afternoon into a statement victory that lifts them out of the relegation conversation.

Shilwatso the Savior

The hero of the day was undoubtedly Ashley Shilwatso. The forward was a constant thorn in the flesh of the Gideon defense. She opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a thunderous free-kick that rattled the crossbar, allowing teammate Lindah Kihara to tap in the rebound for the opener.

However, Gideon Starlets were not going down without a fight. Stacy Koech leveled matters just before the break in the 41st minute, slotting home after a goal-mouth melee. The second half became a tactical chess match until the 78th minute, when an own-goal nightmare struck the hosts. Under pressure from Kayole’s relentless press, a Gideon defender turned the ball into her own net, silencing the home fans.

• Key Moment: Shilwatso’s second goal—a solo effort that saw her weave past two defenders—sealed the points despite a late consolation for Gideon.
• Defensive Rock: Kayole’s backline, marshaled by Hellen Ochieng, withstood a barrage of late attacks to protect the lead.
• Table Implications: The win moves Kayole to 8th on the log with 19 points, breathing life into their campaign.

"We Needed This"

Speaking post-match, Kayole’s assistant coach Esther Mazira could hardly hide her relief. "We have been playing well but not getting results," she said. "Today, the girls showed character. To come to Homa Bay and take three points is not easy. This is the turning point."

For Gideon Starlets, it is back to the drawing board. Their home form is becoming a worry, and with relegation rivals picking up points, they cannot afford many more own-goal disasters.