Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry is looking to turn the tables on Nzoia Sugar after a surprising 2-2 draw in the first leg of their FKF Premier League encounter. With the top spot on the line, K’Ogalo heads into their crucial rematch at Sudi Stadium this Saturday, April 13th, determined to secure all three points.
McKinstry, brimming with confidence despite the underwhelming first leg result, emphasized the importance of player recovery and preparation. Traveling on Friday afternoon, the coach acknowledged the need to manage fatigue before the 3 PM kickoff. “We will make sure that we get the boys rehabbed and prepped as well as they can to get the journey out of their legs,” he remarked.
The draw against Nzoia Sugar exposed some vulnerabilities in Gor Mahia’s performance. McKinstry is keen to address these shortcomings, stating, “We feel we owe Nzoia Sugar something from the beginning of the season.” He specifically highlighted two instances where the team underperformed – the second half against Police FC and the first half against Nzoia Sugar, where they conceded two goals before clawing their way back for a draw.
This desire to rectify past mistakes fuels Gor Mahia’s approach to the rematch. McKinstry declared, “We have sort of a revenge we will try and take by getting all three points in the game.” He acknowledged the team’s eight-point lead at the top of the table but cautioned against complacency. “Any team offered an eight-point lead with nine games to go would take it. So, we go into the next game against Nzoia in a good mood, ready to make amends and carry the day.”
The fixture presents a golden opportunity for Gor Mahia to establish dominance. Nzoia Sugar currently sits rock bottom of the league table with a meager 17 points. Historically, Gor Mahia has enjoyed success against the Millers. Last season, they secured a 1-0 victory in their first meeting, followed by a 2-2 draw in the return fixture. Nzoia Sugar’s last win against the record Kenyan champions came in the 2021 season, a narrow 2-0 victory at Kasarani Stadium. Their recent 4-0 drubbing at the hands of Murang’a Seal further strengthens Gor Mahia’s position as favorites.
This weekend’s clash promises an intriguing encounter. While Gor Mahia appears to have the upper hand on paper, Nzoia Sugar will be eager to spring a surprise and salvage some pride after their recent slump. Can McKinstry inspire his team to secure a crucial victory and maintain their lead at the top of the table, or will Nzoia Sugar pull off a historic upset at their home stadium? All eyes will be on Sudi Stadium on Saturday afternoon as these two Kenyan Premier League sides battle it out for three vital points.
