The Kakamega Derby delivered intensity, passion, and drama as The Iron Ladies suffered their first defeat of the 2025/26 FKF Women National Super League Zone B season, narrowly losing 0–1 to their local rivals, Kakamega Starlets.
The derby clash drew an energetic crowd at the Lwandeti DEB Grounds, with both sides eager to assert dominance in Kakamega County. The Iron Ladies, who came into the match unbeaten in three games, looked confident in the opening stages, controlling possession and creating early chances.
However, despite their pressure, the Starlets capitalized on a defensive lapse midway through the second half, scoring what turned out to be the winning goal from a corner kick. The Iron Ladies pushed hard for an equalizer, but the Starlets’ resolute defending and disciplined play ensured they took all three points.
Team Manager Jeff Mudembei: “We’ll bounce back stronger”
After the match, Team Manager Jeff Mudembei acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic:
“It’s always painful to lose, especially in a derby, but I’m proud of how the girls fought until the end. Football teaches resilience, and this loss will make us stronger. We’ll go back, fix our mistakes, and come back better prepared. The season is long, and our dream of promotion remains alive.”
Head Coach Lemmy Easter: “We lacked sharpness in the final third”
Head Coach Lemmy Easter highlighted the need for clinical finishing in crucial moments:
“We created enough chances to win this game, but our finishing let us down. Kakamega Starlets were well-organized and took advantage of one mistake. We need to be sharper and more composed in front of goal, especially in tight matches like this.”
Captain Faith ‘Fay’: “We owe our fans a response”
Captain Faith (Fay) spoke with determination after the defeat, promising a stronger performance in the next outing:
“It hurts to lose to our sisters, but we take it as motivation. We owe our fans a big response. Everyone in the squad is focused and ready to fight harder. We’ll regroup and come back stronger — that’s the Iron Ladies’ spirit.”
Fan Reaction: “Still proud of our girls”
Lifelong fan Mr. Caleb shared his thoughts after the match:
“It was tough to watch, but I’m still proud of the girls. You can see their effort and heart. One game won’t define this team — Iron doesn’t bend easily. We’ll be back.”
League Standings Update
Following the result, The Iron Ladies sit second in the FKF Women National Super League Zone B table with 7 points from 4 matches, trailing leaders Solasa Stima Queens by two points.
Kakamega Starlets rise to 7th with their first win of the campaign.
Next Fixture
Gene Queens FC vs The Iron Ladies SC
📅 Sunday, November 16, 2025
📍 Uasin Gishu Primary Grounds
🕐 Kick-off: 1:00 PM
The Iron Ladies will aim to return to winning ways on the road as they face Gene Queens, who are currently in the relegation zone and seeking their first points of the season.
In The Galleries
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Visit http://www.ironladiessoccerclub.com for more updates, photos, and match reports.
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