Defending FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia brought an end to their three-game winless streak with a decisive 3-0 victory over Ulinzi Stars on Wednesday, December 18, at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. Goals from Samwel Kapen, Rooney Onyango, and Austin Odhiambo propelled K’Ogalo to fifth place in the league standings as they prepare for their final match of the year against Kariobangi Sharks on December 21.
The win not only boosts Gor Mahia’s campaign but also highlights the tactical adjustments and refreshed energy brought by head coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno, who made significant changes to the starting lineup following a disappointing defeat in their previous match.
Gor Mahia’s Dominant First Half
Gor Mahia began the match with intensity, eager to put their recent struggles behind them. Their determination was evident from the opening minutes, with Sylvaine ‘Sule’ Ricks, the Ulinzi Stars goalkeeper, forced into action early to deny two quick attempts and keep the scoreline level.
The pressure from K’Ogalo eventually paid off in the 26th minute. Samwel Kapen, who was among the five changes to the starting lineup, latched onto a loose ball and delivered a clinical finish to break the deadlock. The goal gave Gor Mahia a much-needed confidence boost and set the tone for the remainder of the game.
As halftime approached, Gor Mahia continued to press forward. In the third minute of first-half stoppage time, Harambee Stars defender Rooney Onyango doubled their lead with a powerful strike, ensuring the defending champions went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Second Half: Maintaining Control and Adding a Third
Ulinzi Stars returned after halftime with a more aggressive approach, attempting to stage a comeback. Boniface Muchiri and Enosh Ochieng created moments of danger, but Gor Mahia’s defense, marshaled by their experienced backline, remained resolute. Ulinzi’s efforts often fizzled out before they could truly threaten the goal.
Meanwhile, Gor Mahia continued to look dangerous on the counterattack. Shariff Musa, who had been a constant threat throughout the game, was brought down in the box by Ulinzi’s Bildad Abonga in the 70th minute. The referee immediately pointed to the spot, awarding K’Ogalo a penalty.
Austin Odhiambo, the reigning FKF Premier League Most Valuable Player, stepped up to take the penalty. With composure and precision, he converted the spot-kick, securing Gor Mahia’s third goal and effectively sealing the victory. The 3-0 scoreline reflected Gor Mahia’s dominance and signaled a return to form for the champions.
Zico’s Tactical Tweaks Deliver Results
Head coach Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno made five changes to the lineup following Gor Mahia’s loss to Kenya Police in their previous match. The adjustments brought in Shariff Musa, Gedeon Bandeka, Rodgers Ouma, Lawrence Juma, and Samwel Kapen, while Philemon Otieno, Alpha Onyango, Sylvester Owino, Mussa Masika, and Chris Ochieng made way.
| HIGHLIGHTS
Watch the three goals against Ulinzi Stars. #Sirkal | #GorFansClub pic.twitter.com/h0sjZkMRgO
— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) December 18, 2024
The reshuffled squad delivered a much-improved performance, blending attacking flair with defensive discipline. Kapen’s goal and Musa’s energetic play on the flanks were particularly impactful, while the presence of experienced players like Rooney Onyango and Austin Odhiambo ensured stability and leadership on the pitch.
Ulinzi Stars’ Struggles Continue
For Ulinzi Stars, the loss adds to a disappointing season that sees them languishing in the relegation zone. They remain in 17th place with just 13 points, two ahead of bottom-placed Posta Rangers, who have played one game less.
Despite showing some attacking intent in the second half, Ulinzi Stars failed to capitalize on key opportunities, including a missed chance by Enosh Ochieng after a well-delivered cross from Boniface Muchiri. Defensive laps
es and a lack of cutting edge in the final third continue to hurt their campaign.
Match Highlights
Goals:
- 26’ Samwel Kapen (Gor Mahia): A composed finish to open the scoring after sustained pressure.
- 45+3’ Rooney Onyango (Gor Mahia): A well-timed strike to double the lead before halftime.
- 70’ Austin Odhiambo (Gor Mahia): A penalty conversion following a foul on Shariff Musa.
Key Saves:
Sylvaine ‘Sule’ Ricks made multiple crucial saves for Ulinzi Stars early in the match, preventing an even more lopsided scoreline.
Defensive Discipline:
Gor Mahia’s backline maintained their composure under pressure, thwarting Ulinzi Stars’ attempts to get back into the game.
Impact on FKF Premier League Standings
The victory moves Gor Mahia to fifth place in the league standings with 21 points, just three behind league leaders KCB and Tusker, who are separated by goal difference. The win gives K’Ogalo a much-needed boost in their title defense as they aim to close the gap at the top of the table.
League Standings after The rescheduled Matches.#FKFPremierLeague pic.twitter.com/T91eRplwQ8
— FKF Premier League (@Officialfkfpl) December 18, 2024
For Ulinzi Stars, the defeat deepens their relegation worries. With only 13 points and an inability to secure consistent results, they face an uphill battle to climb out of the danger zone. Their focus will now shift to addressing defensive vulnerabilities and improving their attacking efficiency.
Looking Ahead
Gor Mahia will look to build on this victory as they prepare for their final match of the year against Kariobangi Sharks on Saturday, December 21. A win in that fixture could further bolster their standing and confidence heading into the new year.
Ulinzi Stars, meanwhile, will need to regroup and find solutions quickly if they are to salvage their season. With matches against direct relegation rivals looming, every point will be crucial in their fight for survival.
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