KPL: Tusker accuse Gor Mahia of 'economic sabotage’

Tusker defender Joakim Atudo during their KPL match against Gor Mahia at Kasarani on Sunday. [PHOTO: DENNIS OKEYO]

Kenyan Premier League (KPL) side Tusker have taken issue with Gor Mahia fans for allegedly gaining free entry into the stadium during their match on Sunday at Kasarani.

Tusker Director Charles Obiny claims he was assaulted by fans and had to seek medical attention after he stood firm that everyone pays.

Obiny also claimed it could have been a tactic by the fans to deny them revenue by forcing themselves inside the stadium and now wants KPL to take firm action to stem the behaviour.

“It is disappointing that every time we complain against Gor fans no one takes action. On Sunday, it was very clear that they had planned to unfairly deny us revenue by forcing themselves inside the stadium for free.

“When I stood firm, they stoned me. At the end of the day we did not collect much as we had anticipated,” he explained.

Kasarani is the home-ground of Tusker after the Meru Stadium was closed for renovations.

Scores of fans were captured on camera climbing the perimeter wall to gain entry into Kasarani on Sunday.

Contacted Gor chairman Ambrose Rachier said he is not aware of the incident, but complained that he was locked out of the stadium for more than half an hour.

“I am not aware of the incident and neither has Tusker raised it with us. But we were locked out of the stadium for more than half an hour with Nairobi City Stars chairman Peter Jabuya and national team coach Bobby Williamson. I did not witness what they are claiming,” he said.

Elsewhere, Mathare United are confident of finishing the 2014 season in their best ever position since winning the KPL title six years ago.

The team have been on a resurgence since the season started with coach Stanley Okumbi insisting that they are ready for their best ever performance this season.

United beat KRA 2-0 on Sunday at Nyayo Stadium in what has boosted their ambitions to finish in the top 8.

“At the moment we are counting every game as it comes. We understand that there are tough matches ahead because at this stage, everyone wants to do well and dont want to lose,” he said.