Gor Mahia seek redemption against Ulinzi Stars after bitter loss to Kenya Police

©Gor Mahia

FKFPL Gor Mahia seek redemption against Ulinzi Stars after bitter loss to Kenya Police

Festus Chuma 08:31 - 10.02.2024

Gor Mahia are aimimg to recover against Ulinzi Stars after a loss to Kenya Police FC ended their 19-match unbeaten streak.

Gor Mahia face Ulinzi Stars in a pivotal Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match on Saturday aiming to recover from a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Kenya Police.

The loss last weekend ended Gor's impressive 19-match unbeaten streak, as Salim Babu's team staged a remarkable comeback in the second half to claim victory.

The upcoming match, set to be held at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos County on Saturday with live coverage provided by Azam TV from 4 pm.

K’Ogalo are navigating through turbulent waters following a botched transfer involving their top scorer, Benson Omala.

The 22-year-old striker's anticipated move to Algerian topflight side JS Saoura fell through earlier this week, despite an official announcement from Gor Mahia stating his departure.

Omala, who has found the back of the net nine times this season, has experienced a noticeable dip in form, coinciding with Gor's recent string of narrow victories.

Before their setback against Kenya Police, Gor Mahia secured four consecutive wins against Bandari, Posta Rangers, Kariobangi Sharks, and Tusker, all by a slim 1-0 margin.

Their last encounter boasting more than a single goal was a 2-0 victory over FC Talanta on December 17th last year.

Omala last scored in the 2-2 draw against Nzoia Sugar on December 9th, highlighting a goal drought that has mirrored his team's struggles on the pitch.

Gor Mahia's coach, Jonathan McKinstry, expressed his disappointment with the team's recent performance, particularly highlighting defensive lapses.

"We are disappointed with the goals we have conceded; we didn’t look as sharp as Police FC were in the second half," McKinstry stated.

The Irishman further reflected on the season's challenges, emphasizing the need for resilience.

"It is not what we wanted 20 games into a season before you taste defeat, but sometimes it takes a punch in the face to get up and go again," he added.

The upcoming clash with Ulinzi Stars is critical for Gor Mahia, not only for their redemption but also to maintain their lead in the league.

Posta Rangers, sitting second in the standings, are hot on their heels, with only eight points separating the two teams.

A slip-up in Machakos could narrow this gap further, especially as Posta Rangers are set to host Kenya Police on the same day.

Gor Mahia fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to support their team, following a match against Kenya Police where hefty gate charges prevented many from attending.

K'Ogalo has historically relied on the energy and support of the "12th man" to spur them to victory.

The head-to-head record between Gor Mahia and Ulinzi Stars favors the former, with Gor not losing to the soldiers in their last seven encounters.

The last victory for Ulinzi Stars came on July 26, 2021, with a narrow 1-0 win.

However, under the guidance of coach Anthony Kimani, Ulinzi Stars have not lost in their last three matches, signaling a potential challenge for K’Ogalo.

Gor Mahia won the first leg of this season's matchup 1-0, thanks to a goal from Omala on October 23.

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