Pwani Oil FC in action against Premier League team Kariobangi Sharks during the FKF Cup Round of 64 at KPA Mbaraki Stadium in Mombasa.
By Editorial Team
Pwani Oil FC head coach Paul Terry Kwoba has termed his side’s FKF Cup clash against Kariobangi Sharks a valuable learning moment, despite a 7-0 defeat.
The loss ended Pwani Oil’s campaign at the Round of 64 stage at KPA Mbaraki Stadium in Mombasa on Saturday.
Speaking after the match, Kwoba said facing an established Premier League side helped the team understand the standards required at the top level.
“It was a good experience for the boys. The players and technical bench learnt a lot,” he said. “We played an experienced and very active team. My boys tried and they were worthy opponents.”
For the lower-division side, the match offered a rare chance to test themselves against elite opposition. The pace and physical intensity exposed areas that need growth, especially among younger players still adjusting to competitive football.
Kwoba said such encounters help players build confidence, sharpen decision-making, and develop resilience. He described the experience as key to long-term progress.
“These are the moments that build teams,” he said. “You understand where you are and where you want to go. We will improve and come back stronger.”
Team Manager Jeremiah Okaalo echoed the coach’s views, praising the players for their commitment and belief. He said the team stayed true to its identity despite the challenge.
“It was good competition against a Premier League side,” Okaalo said. “The boys played their game and fought to the end.”
As Pwani Oil FC returns to Regional League action, the technical team remains confident the lessons learnt will translate into better performances.
Meanwhile, team sponsors Pwani Oil Products Limited reaffirmed their support, noting the squad is still in a development phase.
Pwani Oil Commercial Director Rajul Malde said the company remains proud of the team’s resilience and growth.
“Sport promotion is a key part of our commitment to community development,” Malde said. “This experience will help the team sharpen skills and raise their level of play.”
