The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.

Standard Group Plc HQ Office,
The Standard Group Center,Mombasa Road.
P.O Box 30080-00100,Nairobi, Kenya.
Telephone number: 0203222111, 0719012111
Email: [email protected]

NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

Ready for top 8 tie: Gor first choice goalkeeper explains why he was away

Sports

By -GILBERT WANDERA | Apr 17, 2014

By GILBERT WANDERA

Gor Mahia goalkeeper Jerim Onyango in action in a past KPL match. [PHOTO: FILE / STANDARD]

Eyebrows were raised when Gor Mahia goalkeeper Jerim Onyango appeared to have been overlooked prior to Sunday’s Kenyan Premier League (KPL) match against Ulinzi Stars which the champions won 2-1 at Afraha Stadium.

But the goalkeeper has come out to explain that he had asked for permission to be away on personal issues, but he will be available for Sunday’s KPL-Top 8 match against Thika United.

Onyango was heavily criticised after the team’s 3-2 win over KCB for conceding a simple goal and his absence from the Ulinzi game had been a subject of debate among the fans.

But he has come out to clarify his absence insisting he had asked to be away.

Keep Reading

“What happened against KCB is normal and the coach cannot use that to sideline me. I was away on personal business but now I am back and ready to get back my position in goal,” he said.

Onyango said Gor Mahia’s good record against Thika United will again be relied upon when they meet.

TOUGH MATCH

“It will be a tough match and we expect Thika United to wait for us to attack. But we have a good record against them and this should motivate us to win the match,” said the top goalkeeper.

On the other hand, Thika United coach, John Kamau, says the team are bracing for a tough battle on Sunday.

Kamau led his side to a final appearance last year where they lost to eventual winners Tusker but believes they can do better this time around but must first get over their league champions opponents.

“Gor Mahia have picked good results on the league front recently but we are also doing well. Furthermore, being a knock-out tournament sets the stage for a tough match,” he pointed out.

GREEN ARMY

Kamau believes the most prepared side mentally and tactically will carry the day on Sunday and not even the presence of the dreaded ‘green army’ will rattle his players.

“I have been focusing on preparing my team tactically and mentally for the game because this is what will determine the final results.

“As for the expected huge turn-out of fans, we are not intimidated.

critical moments

“Gor Mahia fans always bring a great atmosphere to the stadium and only a weakling can buckle under the weight of their taunts. It is something we are used to and always look forward to play against them,” he said.

Thika United have already held Gor Mahia 1-1 in their KPL first leg match four weeks ago at City Stadium.

The league champions understand that they can never underrate their opponents who have a habit of frustrating them at critical moments of the season.

Two years ago, it was Thika United who denied Gor Mahia an opportunity to be crowned league champions.