Leopards, Gor fire blanks in season's first Mashemeji Derby

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia played out a 0-0 draw in a Kenyan Premier League Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday, marking the first time the fierce rivals have clashed since 2024.

‎The match saw both sides create numerous chances but fail to break the deadlock, at a fully packed Nyayo Stadium.

‎Miles away in Machakos, Police FC shot one past Posta Rangers to reclaim the top spot on the Premier League log, with 48 points – five more than Gor, and one second-placed Tusker FC.

Shabana FC who were ruthless against visitors Murang’a SEAL at the Gusii Stadium, thrashing them 3-0 to jump to sixth with 37 points, level with Leopards who however enjoy a superior goal difference.

Elsewhere, KCB FC were held to a 2-2 draw by hosts Kakamega Homeboyz in another FKF-P L match Sunday afternoon at the Mumias Sports Complex, Kakamega County.

In the Mashemeji fiesta, the early spell was characterized by high intensity, with the charged crowd adding the necessary spice for arguably the biggest local derby.

AFC Leopards earned an early free-kick in the second minute after Beja Hassan was fouled, but would not convert it meaningfully. Moments later, Ovella Ochieng went down following a tough challenge during a counterattack from the right wing.

‎In the sixth minute, Kelly Madada was fouled just outside the box, giving AFC Leopards a dangerous free-kick. Ovella took the shot but sent it over the bar, leaving fans in frustration.

AFC continued to dominate, earning their first corner in the 9th minute through Semo Samuel. His delivery led to a header that struck the crossbar, but Gor Mahia’s goalkeeper Mathews Gad safely collected the ball.

By the 10th minute, AFC was dictating play in Gor Mahia’s half.

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‎The best chance for Gor Mahia in the first half came in the 21st minute when Geoffrey Onyango header went over the bar. Shariff Musa continued to threaten AFC Leopards’ defense with clever runs down the left wing, the last passes however bearing no fruit.

‎In the 43rd minute, Ovella went down injured but managed to recover after treatment. Two minutes were added before half-time, during which a scuffle broke out after Bonface Kweyu pulled a Gor Mahia player's jersey. AFC Leopards were awarded a free-kick, but Lewis Bandi’s attempt was calmly collected by Gor Mahia goalkeeper Gad. At half-time, the score remained AFC Leopards 0-0 Gor Mahia.

‎Soon after the restart, Beja Hassan was fouled near the area but Kaycie Odhiambo’s resulting shot lacked power. Shariff Musa nearly put Gor Mahia ahead, but his effort went wide.

‎Maxwell Otieno was substituted for Bebeto as Leopards sought fresh attacking options.

‎In the 85th minute, Bebeto’s header hit the side net, keeping the scoreline level. Gor Mahia then made several substitutions, including the introduction of Austin Odhiambo, who was returning from injury. He later hit the side net as Gor continued to press for a late winner, albeit in vain.

‎Substitute Victor Omune had a golden chance for AFC Leopards, attempting a lob over the goalkeeper, but his effort went off target.

- 'Good performance overall' -

In KCB’s tie, the Bankers broke the deadlock in the 19th minute through midfielder Derrick Otieno, who pounced on a loose ball inside the host's half to net his first goal of the season.

In the 52nd minute, Etyang Stephen scored with a header off a set-piece, giving KCB a 2-1 advantage. Yet, Homeboyz equalised again in the 76th minute through substitute Peter Thiong’o, who capitalised on a free ball to score and ensure the match ended 2-2.

After the match, KCB Assistant Coach Jeffer Odongo praised the team’s effort but emphasised areas for improvement.

“We had a good performance overall, and the boys showed a strong desire to win. However, we must credit the hosts for their resilience. We did not manage to hold onto our lead, and that is something we need to work on,” observed Odongo.

Etyang reflected on his performance, saying there was a big chance to take home three points.

“It was a positive game for me, and scoring boosted my morale. However, we missed some good chances, and that cost us the win.”

KCB missed the services center-back Hanaiff Wesonga who is still recovering from an injury, and Francis Kahiro, who picked up a knock in training last week.

The bankers will now look to bounce back when they face Gor Mahia in a rescheduled league fixture next weekend at the Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.