Relax, Gor still Kenyas glamour club Rachier

Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier has called for calm among fans who have vehemently vented their frustration over the recent poor performance, capped by Sunday’s shock loss to Napsa Stars.

The little known Zambian side edged a lackluster K’Ogalo 1-0 at home in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup playoffs, dimming hopes for the Kenyan champions to make the lucrative group stage of the competition.

In the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF-PL), Gor has started relatively slowly, currently ranking sixth with 10 points behind leaders Tusker FC.A section of angry fans blame Rachier for the uninspiring show, claiming he has overseen recruitment of cheap below par players whose deals suit his interests.

But, according to Rachier, there is everything to fight for in the FKF-PL and the CAF Cup tussle is far from over despite regretting the home loss.

“I admit the loss was unexpected and regrettable but we all understand football. It is either way. Even in big leagues in Europe, we have seen underdogs beating giants. Gor is not the first team to suffer a loss,’’ said Rachier.

The club chief further noted he understands what he termed as ‘’fans anger’’ but insisted past achievements should be appreciated too.

“Whenever we win, it is dance and celebrations. We should bear with the boys also when they are beaten. I don’t hear of such comments whenever we win,’’ underscored the long serving Gor chairman.

He also defended the new coach Carlos Manuel Vaz Pinto and the new players in the squad saying they need time to settle and give their best.

“I have heard people saying we wasted money recruiting players. I can assure you we are on the right track. Our new signings are quality players and very soon you will agree with me. As for our coach, I can promise he is experienced and will deliver. He only needs time with the boys.”

Rachier critics, led by former Organising Secretary Judith Nyangi, are demanding that the city lawyer steps down to pave way for fresh ideas in running the club.‘

“We thank Rachier for the far he has brought Gor Mahia. Now it is time he paves way for fresh leadership. Some officials have been in the club for so long and we demand they should leave, because there is nothing new we can expect from him.”

She continued: “I started telling the truth about the club when I was still in the leadership and people thought I had personal issues with Rachier. All the issues I was raising are now evident, and the worst is yet to come if there is no change of guard soonest possible. At this rate, Gor cannot defend the Kenyan Premier League leave alone competing meaningfully at the continental stage.”

Rachier’s stubborn confidence that Gor can upset Napsa away and cruise into the Confederation Cup group stage will be tested this Sunday, when the two sides clash in Lusaka.

A 2-0 win will be enough for Pinto’s men to advance, a fate that could calm down the fuming and affirm Rachier’s call.