Africa-Press – Kenya. Gor Mahia head coach Jonathan McKinstry has extolled his players for putting up a valiant fight against Bandari at Moi Stadium, Kasarani on Wednesday.
Benson Omalla was the hero of the day after scoring the lone goal that separated the two sides at the end of the action-packed Kenyan Premier League match.
Gor took advantage of a blunder by Bandari goalkeeper Michael Wanyika, who let the ball slip out of his grasp after Austin Odhiambo delivered a low cross into the area.
Omalla scored on the second bite of the cherry after Bandari’s defense failed to clear an initial goalbound effort by Lyson Muyonga Khavuchi. Following his charges’ outstanding performance, McKinstry has predicted that the record Kenyan champions will challenge for a 20th title this season.
“Three days ago, we let a win slip through our fingers against Kariobangi Sharks at Nyayo Stadium. I’m glad we learned some important lessons that helped us win today’s game,” McKinstry said.
“We had all the departments functioning well throughout the game and I believe this is the kind of performance that can put us on course for a 20th title.
“Gor is a massive club that should be competing for titles, whether it’s the league title or the FKF Cup,” McKinstry said. McKinstry has urged his players to hit the gas pedal early in the season to keep their opponents at bay.
“Our target in the first half of the season is to be competitive and get into January at the top of the table. If we can access a six-point gap, we’ll be in a good position to contend for the title” McKinstry said.
As the Irish coach celebrated his third victory in four games, his counterpart Anthony Kimani admitted they had lost to a worthy opponent. “On the margin, it was a closely contested encounter, and the results could have gone either way,” Kimani conceded.
“We have registered mixed results so far but the season is still in its initial stage and there is still enough time left for us to put our house in order. We have seen the weak areas that we should urgently work on heading into our subsequent matches,” Kimani said.
Ulinzi Stars defeated Talanta 3-0 at Kasarani Annex, with goals from Hillary Simiyu, Enosh Ochieng and Benard Ongoma. AFC Leopards’ lukewarm league performance continued at Nyayo Stadium with a barren result against visiting Kakamega Homeboyz.
Nairobi City Stars and Kariobangi Sharks played to a one-all draw at Ruaraka Complex. At Kasarani Annex, Sofapaka and Police agreed to a one-all draw. Wazito started the new season with a goalless draw against Bidco at Thika Stadium.
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