>>BY OCHIENG’ ERIC>>
10-man Amsterdam FC stunned Azam United to clinch Kwale County Football Kenya Federation (FKF) mini league in a thrilling final match at Ukunda Showground.
Amsterdam made good use of the home ground and fans’ advantage to stage a one-goal win despite being overpowered by the new boys, Azam United.
The game started with both teams defending, waiting to pounce on counterattacks when their opponents were out of shape.
Kassim Sarai needed just 18 minutes to break the deadlock and keep Amsterdam in the lead after curving in a free-kick outside Azam FC’s box.
Azam United’s efforts to equalize bore no fruits as Harith Mshemanga failed to connect Maulid Ahmed’s cross in the 23rd minute of the game.
In the 45th minute, Kassim Sarai couldn’t double the lead after his header went wide.
In the second half, Amsterdam opted to defend their one-goal lead as Azam continued with their onslaught to get a goal.
Azam United dominated most of the second half but failed to penetrate Amsterdam’s defense led by Hamisi Musa.
Due to pressure, scorer Kassim Sarai found himself on the wrong side by picking a second yellow card in the 80th minute of the game after a reckless challenge.
Amsterdam played the remaining minutes defending until the last minutes without conceding a goal thus being crowned the new champions in town pocketing a sh.500,000 reward as Azam United settled for sh.300,000.
Speaking to Baraka FM Azam United coach Mshem Mohammed said the team had achieved their goal by qualifying for the regional league next season.
In the third play off Vienna FC outshined Kombani Youth 2-0 to clinch the third position.
