Mashemeji Derby: Ghanaian striker gives AFC Leopards something to smile about

Black Star in the Den: Ghanaian Fiamenyo primed for derby in famous white and blue hoops of Leopards

Ghanaian Fiamenyo primed for derby in famous white and blue hoops of Leopards

AFC Leopards Gilbert Fiamenyo(L) and Benjamin Muchuma of Nzoia battle for ball possession during their KPL match at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos on Sunday 02/04/17.PHOTO:BONIFACE OKENDO

As the big match involving AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia set for Sunday nears, one player who is likely to play a big role in the destiny of the game will be Ingwe’s Ghanaian import Gilbert Fiamenyo.

Fiamenyo looks to have sorted AFC Leopards striking problems and has already scored four goals in eight league matches.

The former Hearts of Oak striker joined the Den at the start of the season and with his performance so far he seems to have settled and is among the key players in coach Stewart Hall’s squad.

Leopards seem to be enjoying a good start this season unlike their form at the end of last season where they went 16 games without a win.

“We attribute this good start to the commitment the players have had so far and also their discipline,” coach Hall said. “We are not yet where we would want to be, but we are happy so far. Fiamenyo has given us good striking options upfront and it is only our hope that he remains at the top of his game,” added Hall.

Fiamenyo himself is happy with his performance and wants to give even better performance.

“I am looking forward to playing against Gor Mahia. This will be one big match for all of us and it is important we give our best and come out with a good result,” he said.

Fiamenyo signed a two-year deal with Ingwe, but his performance may start attracting interest elsewhere.

“I must say that I joined AFC Leopard basically for financial reasons. I’m not shy to say that I was enticed by the money involved because at my age, I feel it’s time for me to make good money because after featuring for some of the big teams. I thought of it was right time to move abroad and test my wits in a different league. But money played a major role in my decision to join AFC Leopard,” he was quoted saying when he signed the deal.

Fiamenyo started his youth career with West African Football Academy, a satellite club of Feyenoord that play in Ghanaian Premier League.

During the season 2006/07 he moved to Red Bull FC (Ghanaian Third Division) where he scored 20 goals in only 16 appearances.

Fiamenyo is a complete striker. Thanks to his massive body he is able to shield the ball from the opponents and helps the team in rise up.

He is able to receive long balls and to put the ball on the ground, thanks to his good technique. Mostly he use to go toward the ball for receive the pass, but he is also able to run without the ball, looking for the space.