It was a tough day for Gor Mahia fans as their team’s hopes of winning the FKF Premier League took a big blow. In one of the biggest African derbies, the Mashemeji Derby, Gor Mahia were held to a 1-1 draw by long-time rivals AFC Leopards on Monday. The match was played at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay and brought out the fire, the passion, and the heartbreak that this derby is known for.
Gor Mahia, who were chasing the top spot, went into the game knowing they needed all three points to keep their title hopes alive. Things started well when Austin Odhiambo scored a brilliant goal in the 31st minute, putting Gor ahead and sending their fans into celebration.
But the joy didn’t last long. Just five minutes into the second half, Brian Wanyama of AFC Leopards took advantage of a defensive mistake and scored the equalizer. Gor fans were frustrated, especially as the team had been in control for most of the first half.
The pressure piled on in the second half as Gor pushed hard for a winning goal. In the 84th minute, they appealed for a penalty after what looked like a foul in the box, but the referee wasn’t convinced and waved play on. That moment added to the growing tension on the pitch and in the stands.
After the match, interim coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno expressed his disappointment. “Lack of concentration in defense cost us. It’s the same issue we had in the last game. I’m really disappointed because we had a good plan and were leading until that mistake,” he said.
The draw leaves Gor Mahia stuck in second place with 55 points, trailing Kenya Police FC, who now sit at 61 points with only two games left. To make matters worse, Police FC only need one point from their upcoming matches against Shabana and Gor Mahia to win their first-ever league title.
Zico admitted the league title is likely out of reach now. “I don’t think we have another chance. The gap is too wide. We will now focus on the FKF Cup,” he said.
For the Green Army, it’s a painful moment in what has been a tough and competitive season. Unless Kenya Police and Tusker FC both lose their remaining games, Gor Mahia’s title chase may be over.
By Yockshard Enyendi
