Zoo Kericho's head coach Herman Iswekha said he was thrilled after guiding the side to their Mashujaa Day Cup victory against Kenyan Premier League giants AFC Leopards.

The former top-flight side, who are now plying their trade in Division One after falling down the ranks over the last two seasons, rallied from behind to cruise past their fancied opponents.

“We dedicate this to our ardent fans who have remained faithful through thick and thin. Beating a team of Leopards' calibre is a major morale booster for our young team," Iswekha said.

"We played well with a lot of enthusiasm and we can achieve a lot more in this league if we continue to display this kind of passion," he added

Thomas Trucha's rein as AFC Leopards head coach got off to a torrid start following the loss on Friday.

This was the Czech's first assignment since his appointment last Monday when he was unveiled to replace under-fire gaffer Tom Juma who was shown the door after a miserable run.

The action-packed thriller was staged at the newly refurbished 10,000-capacity Kericho Green Stadium, where President William Ruto had earlier presided over the national celebrations.

The seasoned Kenyan Premier League club squandered a 1-0 lead after Victor Omune's effort from the spot fired them in front in the 50th minute.

That was after Ken Lung'aho was sent tumbling down in the area as he charged for a goal.

The hosts, however, launched endless inroads into Ingwe's territory and it was not long before they restored parity seven minutes later.

With the match looking likely to be settled by penalties, Zoo earned a set piece about 18 metres  out and took the moment to fire themselves ahead in the 73rd minute.

Leopards used the encounter to gauge their potential ahead of Sunday's league crunch match against Bandari at Mbaraki Sports Club in Mombasa.