Record Sportpesa League champions Gor Mahia took a giant step toward winning the title following a 1-0 victory over arch-rivals AFC Leopards in the 99th Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium.
The win, which exacted revenge for their first-leg defeat, headlined a dramatic Round 29 that saw the top two horse race reshaped.
While the Derby took center stage at a packed Nyayo Stadium, the weekend was defined by defensive masterclasses with clean sheets in five out of the nine matches played.
ALSO READ: AFC Leopards vs Gor Mahia: K’Ogalo stun Ingwe to go six points clear in SportPesa League title race
Mara Sugar continued their incredible form under Francis Xavier by stunning Tusker FC, while the battle at the bottom APS Bomet secured another win over Sofapaka.
The league data analysis side, Tisini, has curated the SportPesa League Team of the Week for the Best XI in Round 29.
SportPesa League Team of the Week Round 29
Goalkeeper – Daniel Ogembo – Kenya Police FC (7.4)
The young keeper has been instrumental for the defending champions after stepping in for the injured Job Ochieng.
Ogembo kept a clean sheet as Police were held to a goalless draw against Shabana, making seven saves and eight successful claims. This 100% efficiency earned him the Man of the Match award and marked his fifth consecutive clean sheet.
READ MORE : SportPesa League team of the week
Defender – Potiphar Odhiambo – Kakamega Homeboyz (7.8)
The highest-rated player of the round. The center-back secured a vital away point for Abana Beingo with a second-half goal against KCB. The Man of the Match recorded a 98% pass accuracy, 6 clearances, and 2 blocks.
Defender – Jimmy Owili – Mara Sugar (7.6)
Owili once again proved his effectiveness, recording his seventh assist of the season for the winning goal against Tusker. The left-back has now provided more assists than any other player in the league. He made seven interceptions, five clearances, and created two chances to earn the Man of the Match award.
Defender – David Kalama – Bidco United (7.4)
The Bidco United defender earns a spot after helping the Oilers secure a vital point in the fight against relegation during their 1-1 draw against Posta Rangers.
Defender – Wycliffe Omondi – Shabana FC (7.3)
Omondi has been a rock at the back for Shabana this season. He has largely contributed to the 14 clean sheets kept by goalkeeper Stephen Ochieng,the most in the league,adding another shut-out against the formidable Police attack.
Midfield – Enock Morrison – Gor Mahia (7.4)
Morrison, who has won the Man of the Match award 14 times this season, was a creative force in the derby. His vision in the middle of the park allowed Gor to dominate possession and eventually find the breakthrough.
Midfield – Rowland Makati – KCB FC (7.4)
Makati has earned the trust of coach Robert Matano, partnering Humphrey Mieno in the engine room. He has repaid that faith by netting three times in the second half of the season, including the opener in the 1-1 draw against Kakamega Homeboyz at Kasarani.
Midfield – Maxwell Kubasu – APS Bomet (7.2)
After scoring in their last fixture, Kubasu once again helped APS secure all three points, a third consecutive win, and a clean sheet at home against Sofapaka.
Midfied – Alpha Onyango – Gor Mahia
Alpha was the hero of the day for the record champions, as his 82nd-minute goal was the winner against bitter rivals AFC Leopards. He was also named the Man of the Match for his standout performance in a match in which he served as captain.
Forward – Razel Omondi – Kariobangi Sharks (7.1)
The 16-year-old played a massive role in securing three points against Murang’a Seal. After an explosive counter-attacking run, he provided the assist for Steve Mbulere to slot home the winner.
Forward – Staphod Odhiambo – Ulinzi Stars (6.9)
Staphod has now scored in back-to-back games and was named Man of the Match in Kwale. His second-half strike secured a 2-1 win against Bandari. He recorded three shots, created one chance, and finished with a 94% shot accuracy.
Coach of the Week – Francis Xavier – Mara Sugar
Xavier has turned fortunes around for the Millers, securing three consecutive wins and three clean sheets. Following the 1-0 win over Tusker, Mara Sugar now sits in ninth place with 40 points,surpassing their last season’s tally of 36 with five matches still to play in only their second top-flight season.