Kaddu, Kagimu, McKinstry win Kenyan title with Gor Mahia

Johnathan McKinstry (black) winning the 2022/2023 FKFPL title with Gor Mahia || Photo Credit: Jonah Onyango [Standard]

FOOTBALL Kaddu, Kagimu, McKinstry win Kenyan title with Gor Mahia

Shafic Kiyaga 17:10 - 25.06.2023

The triumph saw Gor Mahia reclaim the title from Tusker FC, narrowly edging them out by just one point.

Former Uganda Cranes coach Jonathan McKinstry guided Gor Mahia to a historic 20th league title with a resounding 4-1 victory over Nairobi City Stars at Kasarani Stadium.

Ugandan duo Shafik Kagimu and striker Patrick Kaddu became Kenyan champions six months after joining the club, with Peter Lwasa finally tasting silverware with the K'Ogalo. 

The triumph marked a remarkable achievement for the club and its passionate fans, who were on the edge of their seats throughout the tension-filled encounter.

The first half ended in a goalless draw, causing anxiety among Gor Mahia supporters as rivals Tusker took a 2-0 lead against Vihiga Bullets, momentarily overtaking them at the top of the table.

However, the second half proved to be a turning point for K'Ogalo, with Benson Omala and Peter Lwasa stepping up to calm the nerves of their team and secure the much-needed victory.

Gor Mahia's attacking efforts in the opening half were thwarted by a resolute City Stars defense, with Lwasa coming closest to breaking the deadlock.

Despite their dominance, they struggled to find the back of the net and were unable to display their usual free-flowing style of play.

Just four minutes into the second half, disaster struck for Gor Mahia as a miscommunication between their defenders allowed Samuel Kaden to capitalize and give City Stars a surprising lead.

However, the setback only fuelled Gor's determination to turn the game around.

Gor Mahia players lift the 2022-2023 FKF Premier League title Photo Credit: Jonah Onyango [Standard]

Omala, who had endured a six-game goal drought, ended his dry spell by scoring his 26th goal of the season and equalizing for his team.

In doing so, he moved within one goal of Elvis Rupia of Kenya Police, while also equaling the legendary Maurice 'Sonyi' Ochieng's record set 47 years ago.

The goal injected new life into Gor Mahia, and their attacking prowess shone through once again as Lwasa found the back of the net with a spectacular left-footed strike.

The goal showcased Lwasa's technical ability and provided a significant boost for his team.

Austin Odhiambo sealed the victory for Gor Mahia with a magnificent free-kick, leaving City Stars' goalkeeper helpless.

The icing on the cake came in stoppage time when Alpha Onyango extended Gor's lead to 4-1, cementing their status as the deserving champions.

The triumph saw Gor Mahia reclaim the title from Tusker FC, narrowly edging them out by just one point.

It was a bitter disappointment for Tusker, who had won the previous two titles consecutively but fell short on the final day.

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