Ulinzi Starlets Get Title Boost After FKF Ruling

In summary:

Ulinzi Starlets got extra points after winning an appeal about a Zetech Sparks player.
This moves Ulinzi closer to league leaders Kenya Police Bullets with one game left.
The final day will decide who wins the league.

Ulinzi Starlets are now very close to winning the FKF Women’s Premier League after the FKF gave them extra points from a game against Zetech Sparks due to an ineligible player. With only one game left, they are just two points behind the leaders, Kenya Police Bullets. The final matches will decide who takes home the title. This situation also highlights the need for all teams to follow the league’s rules about player registration.

Ulinzi Wins Appeal Over Player Issue

Ulinzi Starlets got extra points after winning an appeal about a Zetech Sparks player. Photo courtesy.

The controversy stemmed from a league fixture played on March 8, 2025, at the Ruaraka Complex, where Ulinzi Starlets clashed with Zetech Sparks. Prior to the match, Ulinzi Starlets formally protested the eligibility of Zetech Sparks’ player, Bertha Omita.

Ulinzi contended that Omita’s transfer from Bullets, a club based in Kisumu, to Zetech Sparks was incomplete, and Zetech failed to produce her official player license for verification.

Following an investigation, the FKF’s Leagues and Competitions Committee substantiated Ulinzi’s claims. The official referee’s report indicated that Omita was included in Zetech’s team lineup without a valid license number, a clear violation of FKF regulations.

According to Article 3.8.3 of the FKF Regulations, any player lacking a verified license is ineligible to participate in league matches. Consequently, Zetech Sparks was found to have contravened Article 3.8.1 of the regulations, and the match result was overturned, with Ulinzi Starlets being awarded the victory.

Final Game to Decide the Winner

The FKF’s verdict has dramatically reshaped the FKF-WPL title race, turning the final matchday into a decisive event for both Ulinzi Starlets and Kenya Police Bullets. The original match between Ulinzi and Zetech on March 8 concluded in a 2-2 draw.

However, the FKF’s ruling grants Ulinzi two additional points, significantly enhancing their chances of securing their first-ever WPL championship. On May 25, Ulinzi Starlets are scheduled to host Kisumu All Starlets at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, while Kenya Police Bullets will face Trinity Starlets at the Trinity Complex in Nakuru. A victory for Kenya Police Bullets in their final match will guarantee them their second consecutive league title.

Conversely, if Kenya Police Bullets draw or lose their match and Ulinzi Starlets secure a win, the military side will be crowned champions. Ulinzi Starlets’ coach, Collins Oduor, conveyed his team’s confidence, emphasizing their focus on delivering a strong performance to capitalize on this significant opportunity.

Ulinzi said Omita’s transfer was incomplete and Zetech lacked her license. Photo courtesy.

What This Means for the League

The FKF’s decision carries implications beyond the title chase, underscoring the critical importance of adhering to the federation’s rules and regulations. Zetech Sparks now face the repercussions of their administrative oversight, losing valuable points that could have bolstered their position in the league standings.

For Ulinzi Starlets, this ruling stands as a testament to their unwavering determination and diligence, both on the field and in administrative matters. Throughout the season, the team has demonstrated resilience, marked by notable performances from key players such as Sheryl Angachi and Fasila Adhiambo.

Meanwhile, Kenya Police Bullets, under the guidance of coach Beldine Odemba, remain a formidable contender, boasting an impressive defensive record, having conceded only seven goals in their 20 league matches.

Football enthusiasts across Kenya are eagerly anticipating the final matches of the season, as the outcomes will determine whether Kenya Police Bullets successfully defend their title or Ulinzi Starlets achieve a historic championship victory.

The FKF has issued a strong reminder to all participating teams about the necessity of strict compliance with player registration protocols to prevent similar disputes from arising in the future.