- Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has explained why it was crucial for his side to secure maximum points against APS Bomet on Sunday.
- K’Ogalo edged past APS Bomet 2-1 at Kericho Green Stadium to open a six-point cushion over AFC Leopards in the SportPesa League title race.
- Akonnor admitted they had to claim victory not only to exact revenge but also to widen the gap after Ingwe were held to a draw by Bandari FC.
Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has explained why securing maximum points against APS Bomet on Sunday at Kericho Green Stadium in the SportPesa League Round 20 clash was absolutely crucial.
The record champions edged the Law Enforcers 1-2 to stretch their lead at the top to six points over arch-rivals AFC Leopards. K’Ogalo now sit comfortably on 43 points, while Ingwe trail in second with 36.
It was their new lethal striker, Ghanaian international Ebenezer Assifuah, who broke the deadlock before another recent acquisition, Jackson Dwang, doubled their lead.
Hansel Ochieng’s consolation goal was not enough for APS Bomet to complete a double over K’Ogalo, having stunned them 4-1 in the first leg.
ALSO READ: Gor Mahia edge APS Bomet to open a six-point lead at the summit
Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor explains why it was crucial to secure maximum points against APS Bomet
Speaking to Azam TV after the match, coach Akonnor stressed just how vital the win was – not only to narrow the gap but also to exact some revenge for that heavy first-leg defeat.
He admitted his side had to approach things differently this time around.
Today, the three points were absolutely necessary for us. We knew what they did to us in the first round, so we had to be very cautious in how we approached this one. The pitch also felt quite different, but tactically we wanted to stay compact.
We aimed to set traps for them, and the opening goal was the result of that. The players are really grasping things well now, and that makes us very happy,” he said.
The former Black Stars coach also noted they had to seize the moment and never underestimate Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omolo’s charges.
With AFC Leopards dropping two points after a goalless draw with Bandari at Mbaraki Sports Club on Saturday, it was the perfect opportunity to pull away.
Our opponents (AFC Leopards) drew in their match, and we were away in a really tough fixture against a side that does not fear us – one that does not give us respect. They beat us 4-1, and that was embarrassing. We had to come in with real focus, determination, and a solid game plan,” he reiterated.
With 14 matches still to play, Gor Mahia are hungry to reclaim the SportPesa League title for a record 22nd time.
They will need to ensure Ingwe, who still have a game in hand, do not close the gap or capitalize on any slip-ups.
Currently enjoying a 10-match unbeaten streak, Gor Mahia will look to extend that run on Sunday, February 22, when they host KCB FC at Nyayo National Stadium from 4pm EAT.