Gor Mahia captain Muguna speaks after Mashemeji Derby victory

Gor Mahia captain Kenneth Muguna in action against AFC Leopards on Sunday at the Kasarani Stadium [Courtesy]

Perennial Kenya League Champions Gor Mahia on Sunday ensured status quo remained in the Mashemeji Derby, hammering bitter rivals AFC Leopards 4-1 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

Ivorian talisman Gislein Yikpe put K’Ogalo 2-0 up in a span of eight minutes after the restart before former Leopards man Clifton Miheso stretched their lead with a screamer 11 minutes from time.

Tresor Ndikumana tried to salvage the situation for Ingwe late in the second half but his salvation was short-lived, as K’Ogalo sealed the game with two minutes left courtesy of a Lawrence Juma strike.

In an interview with The Standard, K’Ogalo star captain Kenneth Muguna, could not hide his delight after playing his first-ever Mashemeji Derby.

“I feel good to have played in my first derby. I am happy to have seen the fans and I’m happy for the win,” an elated Muguna told explained. 

Muguna was at the centre of everything as Gor put 4 past AFC Leopards [Courtesy]

Asked if he sees himself representing the national team Harambee Stars in future major tournaments, Muguna said:  

“If the chance comes I’ll take it on. To be called to the national team for me it’s a big thing. It’s always nice to represent the country. My motivation is God. I want to thank him for everything. I always want to give my best for every game.”

On the aspects of improving his game, Muguna underscored the fact that he needs to add more goals to his game.

“I want to score. I have to find chances to score, at least to build up from there,” he said.

The 23-year-old expressed the desire to play at the top level of football in his career, saying he would love to control proceeding on the pitch in the manner Barcelona duo Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta did.  

"I love Sergio Busquets but Iniesta was also good. I would want to reach that level in my career,” Muguna told The Standard. 

K’Ogalo head coach Steve Polack was also a happy man after the win and praised his players for their display.

 “I’m over the moon. It is unbelievable after a scrappy first half, we ended up winning. I’m really proud of my players. They showed the true character of a champion. The half-time pep-talk won it for us,” said Polack.

The win sees Gor leap into first place on the log with 18 points, one ahead of Kakamega Homeboys and Tusker FC who are second and third respectively, but with two more matches played.