10-man Gor Mahia dig deep to complete season double over AFC Leopards

League leaders Gor Mahia FC moved a step closer to defending their Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) title thanks to a 1-0 win over rivals AFC Leopards in a thrilling Mashemeji derby played at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday evening.

Gor Mahia’s only goal of the match came in the 30th minute through reliable midfielder Austine Odhiambo who returned to haunt his former side.

The talented midfielder, who has played an instrumental role for the record FKFPL champions this season, pounced on a costly error by goalkeeper Levis Opiyo before redirecting the ball into the back of the net.

Odhiambo’s goal sent the thousands of Gor Mahia supporters into a frenzy as their Ingwe fans remained seated in their seats in silence, wondering what their goalkeeper was thinking to put them in such a difficult situation.

Play here and stand a chance of winning the over 360 Million SportPesa Mega Jackpot

Opiyo failed to clear the ball on time, allowing Austine and Benson Omalla to close in on him and within a blink of an eye, the ball had kissed the back of the net.

Before that unfortunate incident, AFC Leopards had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the first half when they launched a dangerous counterattack, but Jaffari Owiti’s effort hit the goal post as some of Ingwe fans held their heads in disbelief.

However, the Thomas Trucha-coached side did not stop with their pressure and in the 35th minute, Victor Omune had a chance to open the scoring but he was brought down by Gor Mahia’s custodian Kevin Omondi.

The center referee had no option but to show Omondi a straight red card for preventing a clear goal scoring opportunity.

ALSO READ: Tito Okello's brace guides Police over Sofapaka as Sharks clobber doomed Nzoia

Besides the thrilling action, drama was also witnessed outside the pitch, as some of the stewards clashed during the halftime break.

Despite the red card, Gor Mahia managed to hold on to the narrow win and once again bagged the bragging rights.

The victory helped K’Ogallo, who are coached by Northern Ireland citizen Jonathan McKinstry, to increase their tally to 57 points, nine more than the second-placed side Police FC.

On the other hand, AFC Leopards remained stuck in position eight with 38 points from 27 matches.

In other fixtures, Tusker FC squeezed past Ulinzi Stars with a 1-0 victory while Murang’a Seal and Muhoroni Youth shared spoils at the SportPesa Arena.

The Brewers' goal came courtesy of Erick Kapaito shortly after the start of the second half. 

ALSO READ: SportPesa launch revolutionary Tujiamini Initiative to nurture talent