Hard work begins for Gor Mahia with CAF Champions League the major challenge

Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno says the hard task now awaits the team as they gear to represent Kenya in Africa, in the CAF Champions League, after they completed a tough season on Sunday, crowning it off with a record 20th Kenyan Premier League title after thrashing Nairobi City Stars 4-1 at Kasarani Stadium.

Otieno also says the team needs time to recuperate as they prepare for “the big assignment ahead” – to represent the county in the continental assignment.

“We deserve a rest now after the big win. We have a big assignment ahead which requires a better strategy,” Otieno said.

He further said they have missed playing in the continental stage for a while, and their qualification is a blessing from God.

Otieno, therefore, noted that they are planning to make a good impression at the continental level.

The skipper attributed their success to a joint effort between the club’s leadership, the team’s technical bench and their fans.

“I want to thank the office, the technical bench and the fans who have contributed to our success. We recognize the role played by every department for our eventual success. The discipline in the camp has also helped us emerge the victors this season,” he said.

Gor Mahia’s captain further revealed that despite Sunday’s win, there was a point in the match they had lost hope of clinching the KPL title.

He said this happened when Tusker FC, who were trailing them with a point, were 2-0 up at half-time, against Vihiga Bullets, while at Kasarani they trailed City Stars 0-1 by the 48th minute.

According to Otieno, head coach Jonathan MC’Kinstry’s encouragement at the halftime break lifted their spirits.

Despite the halftime talks, the team's hopes were thwarted after City Stars’ striker Samwel Kapen capitalized on a mistake made by their defenders to make the game 1-0 for the City side in the 48th minute.

Otieno says the goal sent shock waves to his teammates, but he asked them to remain calm.

Two minutes after the goal, Gor Mahia’s lead striker Benson Omall who had missed numerous chances in the first half sent their fans into a frenzy after heading home past City’s goalkeeper to make the scoreline level.

Gor scored three other goals from Peter Lwasa, Austin Odhiambo, and Alpha Chris Onyango.

Following their victory, Uganda’s international Patrick Kaddu said he was happy to lift the trophy with Gor Mahia after being in the club for half a season.

‘’I am happy the team I chose to play for has lifted the trophy. We are heading to the continentals, and I see this great club making strides in African football,’’ said Kaddu.

Gor will now play Nyanza combined on Saturday in Homa Bay during the Luo festival organized to inaugurate the next Luo Council of Elders. The function will be graced by the club’s patron Raila Odinga.