Kenyan Stars Abroad: Mixed Weekend For Harambee Stars Footballers in England

It was a mixed bag of fortunes for Harambee Stars players plying their trade in England, with Zak Vyner impressing in the Championship while others endured quieter weekends in the lower tiers.

Harambee Stars defender Zak Vyner was on song as Bristol City brushed aside Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 in a Championship clash that took place on Saturday evening.

Vyner, who was given a call up to the Harambee Stars squad under Engin Firat in 2024, is a player viewed by Benni McCarthy as a big part of his future plans, with the South African even telling the media earlier this month that the London-born star is “hungry” to play for Kenya.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

Vyner looked impressive throughout. Playing on the right side of a back three, he made eight clearances, two tackles and interceptions, one blocked shot, won four of his five ground duels, three of his five areal duels and had an 83 percent pass accuracy.

The Robins were out of sight before halftime thanks to goals from Emil Riis, Anis Mehmeti, and a Harry Amass own goal. The result moved them up to third in the Sky Bet Championship with 11 points, as they chase Premier League promotion after last season’s playoff disappointment.

In League Two, Clarke Oduor came off the bench as Grimsby Town salvaged a 1-1 draw with Cambridge United. 

The Mariners equalised deep into stoppage time when Justin Amaluzor converted the rebound after Jaze Kabia’s penalty was saved. Adam Mayor had earlier put Cambridge in front with a crisp first-half finish.

Elsewhere, Vincent Harper was left out of Walsall’s squad as they drew 1-1 with Fleetwood Town in League One. Ryan Graydon headed Fleetwood ahead, but Daniel Kanu equalised midway through the first half for the Saddlers.

Tyler Onyango, recently loaned back to Stockport County from Everton, also missed out as the Hatters drew 1-1 with Cardiff City. 

Oliver Norwood’s first-half penalty looked set to secure victory, only for Yousef Salech to rescue a late equaliser for Cardiff.