Coach Akonnor relishes title fight as K’Ogalo coast clear

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor says he is relishing the pressure being applied by arch rivals AFC Leopards in the ongoing title race.

Speaking after a commanding 3-0 victory over KCB FC at Nyayo National Stadium, Akonnor admitted there was immense expectation to deliver but lauded his players for rising to the occasion.

First-half strikes from Enock Morrison, Shariff Musa and Samuel Kapen sealed the emphatic win for K’Ogalo.

Morrison opened the scoring in the 24th minute with a long-range effort before Musa and Kapen struck in quick succession to put the game beyond the Bankers’ reach before the break.

“There was pressure on us to win today, and the boys in every aspect of the game were able to process things very well. They showed mental toughness and confidence,” said Akonnor.

The Ghanaian tactician believes his side has what it takes to maintain their impressive run and edge out Ingwe in the title chase, but cautioned against complacency.

“We need to stay focused in every game we play. It is not going to be easy, but the team that has the nerves to keep going is the team that will win. We have the nerves,” he added.

Akonnor was particularly impressed by his team’s tactical discipline, especially in transition.

“We are always aware of how the opponent plays because we study them. When we regain possession, it is about going forward quickly and catching the opponent off guard before they are organized.”

Gor Mahia have been in scintillating form since back-to-back defeats to APS Bomet and AFC Leopards, winning nine matches and drawing two.

They currently sit top of the table with 46 points from 21 matches, six ahead of AFC Leopards, who have a game in hand.