Dj Vnyash
The early season struggles of FKF-Premier League defending champions Gor Mahia worsened on Wednesday, as they were beaten 2-0 by Bandari United at the rough Ukunda Showground in Kwale County.
Goals from Geoffrey Ojunga and Benja Nyamawi in the second half sealed the win for Bandari, further increasing the pressure on Gor Mahia and their coach, Leonardo Neiva, who had to be escorted from an upset crowd.
Bandari created the first chance in the opening two minutes, with Ojunga’s 30-yard free kick saved for a corner by Gor Mahia goalkeeper Caleb Otieno. In the 20th minute, Gor’s keeper also blocked a bicycle kick from Bandari’s Alfred Emoni.
Despite being tightly marked by Bandari’s defense, Gor’s Chris Ochieng and Austin Odhiambo struggled to get a shot on target in the first half hour. Bandari made a substitution around the 30-minute mark.
Just before halftime, Odhiambo’s free kick went narrowly over the bar, and in the second half, Gor’s Morrison Enock had a chance but sent his shot wide.
Things worsened for Gor in the 67th minute when their captain, Geoffrey Ochieng, was sent off for a foul on Bandari’s Izzadin Ramadhan.
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Ojunga then scored with a 25-yard free kick, finding the top corner of the net. Bandari’s lead was extended when Nyamawi converted a strong pass from Ramadhan, beating Otieno in goal.
The match was briefly halted due to chaotic scenes between fans, resulting in five injuries. After a delay, the referee resumed the game for the final six minutes, confirming Bandari’s win.
Bandari’s goalkeeper, James Omusinde, made a successful debut, filling in for the ill Bryne Omondi. After the match, Bandari coach Ken Odhiambo praised his team’s performance: “I am happy my players showed character and played according to our plan. We knew Gor would attack more, but we dominated the second half.”
In another match at Dandora Stadium in Nairobi, Sofapaka and Kenya Police played to a 1-1 draw. Joseph Kuloba scored for Sofapaka in the 9th minute, while David Okoth equalized for Police early in the second half.
