Murang’a Seal narrowly lost the FKF Cup semi-final to Gor Mahia on Sunday.
Murang’a Seal coach Yusuf Chipo has explained what went wrong after his charges were bundled out of the FKF Cup semi finals by Gor Mahia in a clash that took place at the Dandora Stadium on Sunday afternoon, losing 5-4 on penalties following a 2-2 regulation time draw.
Murang’a Seal stunned Gor with an early fifth-minute goal from Michael Owen and held onto the lead into the break.
Gor came out rejuvenated in the second half, responding through Bryson Wangai and Alpha Onyango’s spectacular effort. But the Seals clawed back with a Wilson Kamau equaliser to send the match into penalties.
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Gor Mahia were perfect from the spot, with Onyango leading the charge. Goalkeeper Gad Mathews became the hero, saving Harun Mwale’s penalty to send the Kenyan giants into yet another final.
Speaking after the match, Chipo explained what exactly went wrong for his charges.
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“We struggled in the second half which allowed Gor Mahia to bounce back. We made some adjustments that allowed us to get the draw in full time,” Chipo, who took charge of the side in April, said.
“However, penalties do not really belong to anyone in particular, but I am grateful my players showed great effort and I know we are heading in the right direction.”
Asked what inspired them to take an early lead, Chipo explained it had taken him time to inject confidence into his players, which allowed them to settle the nerves by scoring early and taking the lead into the break.
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The gaffer however believes the second goal they conceded should have been dealt with in a more effective manner by goalkeeper Wilson Ngamau.
“The most important thing was for players to calm down, which is why we found the back of the net. However, they found the back of the net in the second half and I believe my goalkeeper should have done better dealing with the second one.
“Regardless, we made some adjustments that allowed us to restore parity.”
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With their FKF Cup dream over, Murang’a Seal must now turn their attention to their fight for league survival. Currently 16th in the FKF Premier League standings with 34 points, the club is staring down the threat of relegation with just two fixtures left to play — against Mara Sugar and FC Talanta.
But Chipo remains optimistic. “We have to regroup and find how we can get at least a draw or win against Mara Sugar, and then do well against FC Talanta,” he said. “But I am confident we will still be in the Premier League next season.”
While the cup exit stings, Chipo’s focus is now firmly on ensuring Murang’a Seal's top-flight status — and using the fight and resilience shown against Gor Mahia as fuel for their survival battle.