‘I Feel The Same Way’ -Gor Mahia Coach Asks For Patience From Angry Fans Following Shock Bidco United Loss

Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has explained what his charges must do to bounce back from their bitter 1-0  loss to Bidco United in his first game in charge of the side at Kasarani Stadium last Sunday.

The decisive moment came late in the game when Bidco substitute Newton Ochieng calmly converted an 88th-minute penalty after Ghanaian import George Amonoo fouled inside the box.

Akonnor, who took over on August 1 following the sackings of Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno and Michael Nam, admitted the loss was a bitter pill to swallow but urged fans to trust the process as he continues to shape the team with the Premier League title firmly in their sights.

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Reflecting on the performance, Akonnor said his team did well to control the game but paid the price for poor finishing.

“Sometimes football is like that. We created good chances but lacked composure in the final third. We were a bit careless in defending, and the penalty cost us.

“ Still, I can’t blame the boys too much — they did what they could. We controlled the game, and for large parts, we were ahead of the opponent. But they defended very well and made it difficult for us. Now we must work harder on finishing our chances.”

When asked about Gor’s ongoing struggles in front of goal, a problem that also haunted his predecessor, Akonnor was quick to assure supporters that improvements are coming.

“I can only assure them of hard work. The positive thing is that we’re creating chances, which is better than not creating at all. Now we need to put the ball in the net, and that is what we’ll be working on throughout the week. Hopefully, in the next match, the goals will come.”

On the frustration among fans after a costly loss in a game many felt was winnable, the Ghanaian tactician sympathised:

“I feel the same way they do. When you control 70% of the game and create chances but don’t score, it’s disappointing. I understand their frustration.

"But as a coach, I have to stay positive. The performance was good in many aspects — we just couldn’t finish. My job now is to encourage the players, keep them working hard, and sharpen our play in the final third.”

Akonnor’s men will now turn their attention to their next clash against Sofapaka, where fans will be hoping to see both a response and the goals that were missing at Kasarani.