Gor Mahia keeper Kevin Omondi reclaims Akonnor’s trust

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor is convinced that shot-stopper Kevin Omondi has fully regained his form to compete for a place in the starting eleven.

Omondi, who was preferred in goal during Gor's weekend 1-0 victory over APS Bomet in Homa Bay, had previously been sidelined for an extended period. However, Akonnor expressed complete confidence in the custodian after he pulled off several acrobatic saves to help K'Ogalo secure a clean sheet.

“Our goalkeeper was fantastic. He made some saves which we thought would have resulted in APS Bomet goals. He has demonstrated confidence in goal and I thank him for that,” said Akonnor.

For much of last season, Kevin found himself out of favour following the arrival of Bryne Omondi from Bandari FC, who was absorbed by Gor during the CHAN tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Akonnor commended his technical bench for helping Kevin rebuild his confidence after a grueling struggle to rediscover his form following a long injury layoff.

“We kept encouraging him and I wish to thank the technical bench for showing commitment which has now made him one of the best.”

This comes at a time when Kenyan international Bryne Omondi remains uncertain about his return between the posts for the record Kenyan Premier League champions.

Bryne was previously suspended following suspected foul play during Gor Mahia’s heavy loss to Egyptian giants Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League preliminary stage.

Although Bryne has resumed training with the squad, the technical bench remains hesitant to reinstate him as their primary goalkeeper.

The Ghanaian tactician also singled out midfielder Ben Stanley Omondi for special praise. According to the coach, it was Ben Stanley’s introduction that led to the set-piece from which Gor netted the late winner against APS Bomet.

“Ben Stanley was outstanding. His creativity helped us get the three points on the match day. I understand he could not have done it alone but he was outstanding,” added Akonor.

Gor Mahia have begun their title defence on a strong footing with back-to-back wins. They handed Murang'a Seal a 4-2 thrashing in their league opener before grinding out a hard-fought victory last weekend, courtesy of an Alpha Onyango strike in the dying minutes.

The holders will host coastal side Bandari FC over the weekend at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

Gor Mahia currently sit atop the league standings with six points and a +3 goal difference, having scored five goals and conceded two.

Management recently reiterated its backing for Akonnor to steer the club to greater heights, despite an early exit from the CAF Champions League and a final loss to Rwandan giants Rayon Sports in the CECAFA Club Championship.