The win lifts Sofapaka to seventh in the standings, while Ulinzi, now on a four-match losing streak, are just four points above the relegation zone.
Sofapaka completed a season double over Ulinzi Stars with a 1-0 win on Friday at the Ulinzi Sports Complex, following their 4-1 victory in December. The win helped Sofapaka bounce back from a surprising loss to Talanta last week, while deepening the woes of Ulinzi coach Dunstan Nyaudo.
The only goal came in the 40th minute when Sofapaka's Bramwel Simiyu latched onto a long throw-in from Baron Ochieng. He outmuscled Ulinzi defender Bildad Abonga to poke the ball past goalkeeper Issa Emuria. Earlier, Sofapaka had come close, with Wayne Otieno striking the post and Victor Okello heading a free-kick wide.
Ulinzi, now with 10 losses this season, had a few chances but couldn't capitalize. Javan Omondi’s curler from the right sailed over the bar, and Staphod Odhiambo was denied twice by Sofapaka goalkeeper Edward Olak. One of Odhiambo's attempts in first-half stoppage time was ruled out for a handball.
Despite some solid defending from Ulinzi, including a clearance by Abonga early in the second half, they struggled to find the net. A late mistake from Olak allowed Joseph Ochieng to fire over the bar from a spilled ball.
The win lifts Sofapaka to seventh in the standings, while Ulinzi, now on a four match losing streak, are just four points above the relegation zone.