2008 Kenya Premier League Champions Mathare United kicked off their 2018 campaign on a high as they rallied to beat league debutants Vihiga United 2:1 in an end to end encounter played at the Bukhungu Stadium.

The hosts Vihiga United, broke the deadlock in the 24th minute of the match courtesy of a Dennis Wafula strike to send the home fans into a frenzy.

The Francis Kimanzi charges came from the interval rejuvenated and restored parity in the 46th minute courtesy of former Tusker talisman Clifford Alwanga before the new signing grabbed the winner in the 79th minute when he headed home an Edwin Seda cross.

The win takes the slum Boys to the fifth position in the league standings.