FKF-PL: Gor Mahia face SEAL test in Murang'a

Football
By Washington Onyango | May 04, 2024
Gor Mahia’s Alpha Onyango pass ball past Alvin Mangeni of Kenya Police during FKF Premier league match at Kasarani stadium. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

As the FKF Premier League heads into Matchweek 28, all eyes are on Gor Mahia, the record champions, who are looking to tighten their grip on the league title.

With a formidable nine-point lead over their closest challengers, Kenya Police, Gor Mahia's upcoming clash against Murang’a SEAL at Sportpesa Arena could prove pivotal in their quest for another league triumph.

Gor Mahia (57 points) have displayed a remarkable level of consistency this season, boasting a record of 16 wins, 9 draws, and just 2 losses.

Their defense has been particularly impressive, conceding the fewest goals in the league (12) and securing 17 clean sheets, thanks largely to the standout performances of the suspended goalkeeper Kevin Omondi.

Unlike K'Ogalo, Murang’a have had a mixed season registering nine wins, eight draws, and 10 losses.

Gor Mahia will be relying on their joint-top scorer Benson Omalla, who tied on 12 goals together with Tito Okello of Kenya Police.

The combination of Omalla’s striking prowess and the creative midfield support could be key in unlocking SEAL's defense, which has been relatively solid with a goal difference of -1.

"Despite the heavy downpours we've experienced lately, our preparation hasn't slowed down. We have been focusing on maintaining our physical conditioning and tactical sharpness indoors when necessary," said Gor coach Jonathan McKinstry.

“The team is fully aware of the importance of the upcoming matches, and we're adapting our sessions to ensure we're at our best. Rain or shine, our goal remains the same—to secure the league title and continue our legacy."

Elsewhere, second-placed Kenya Police will be looking to keep the pressure on Gor Mahia as they face Kakamega Homeboyz at Mumias Sports Complex.

The lawenforcers, coming off a narrow 2-1 victory over Sofapaka, have shown they are not out of the title race just yet. Their leading scorer Tito Okello must be at his best if they are to take all three points from this encounter.

Tusker, sitting third with 46 points, will aim to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Ulinzi Stars when they take on relegation-threatened Nzoia Sugar at Machakos Stadium.

Muhoroni Youth and Shabana face critical matches in their fight for survival. Muhoroni Youth, sitting just above the relegation playoffs spot, will clash with Bidco United, while Shabana, just one point behind Muhoroni, face a tough challenge against Sofapaka.

Meanwhile, Football Kenya Federation has provisionally suspended five individuals over match fixing allegations.

The quintet of Meshack Omondi, Jacqueline Barongo Stephen Adeya (all referees), Talanta player Kevin Otieno Olang’o and Kibra United team manager Abdulkarim Amele have been suspended from all football related activities with immediate effect following investigations by the FKF Integrity Department.

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