Mathare United battled back to pick point against Gor Mathare after their SportPesa Premier League ended in a 1-1 tie at Kasarani on the day former Harambee Stars captain Dennis ‘The Menace’ Oliech made a comeback to the local scene.
Gor Mahia fans gave Oliech a rapturous welcome with Harambee Stars coach Sebastian Migne also on the stands to witness his second coming.
The match was decided by penalties as both teams scored from the spot. Jacques Tuyisenge scored for Gor Mahia before Kevin Kimani equalised.
Coming into Sunday’s fixture, Mathare United looked to have an edge.
The last time they lost to Gor Mahia was on October 30, 2016 when they went down 2-1.
In 2017 Mathare United had won both fixtures with identical 1-0 scores and last year the two teams played to a 2-2 tie in both legs of the league.
With this kind of record, it was always going to be tough for Gor Mahia to bring down the slum boys.
Despite this impressive record, the Slum Boys spent the first quarter of an hour defending as their opponents went all out for the kill.
Gor Mahia enjoyed plenty of possession, but didn’t take advantage of it. Francis Kahata was at the heart of the attack with nice shot passes and at times long ones as the situation required.
But hearts off to Mathare United for a superb defending. Their goalkeeper Allan Owiny was the busiest of the afternoon and did well to deny Gor Mahia an early goal.
With every chance lost, frustration was evident on the Gor bench.
Mathare United finally had their attacking moments from the 20th minute, but their first effort ended in a corner.
This was after Fredrick Onyango had fumbled to keep out a Wycliff Nyakeya effort.
Harambee Stars Migne who watched Oliech said he is keen to see his ability.
“He has been away for long and so it may be difficult for him to come back quickly. But I will certainly follow his progress and all that of all the top players in the league.
“From what I have seen, he has the willingness but it has to match the reality which will come through hard work.”
Staunch Gor Mahia fan Dan Oketch said he is excited about the return of Oliech.
“He is experienced and a leader on the pitch. His presence is a big motivation to the young players.
“Furthermore, his being on the pitch will pull many defenders to himself and allow others to score.
“He needs time and we should see his potential after three matches.”
Former Mathare United midfield Innocent Mutiso said he has personally been inspired by Oliech’s return.
“His presence in the dressing room is a great motivation for the younger players and the league as well.
“It is unfortunate that Gor Mahia unveiled him in a most unprofessional manner. This is not the kind of player you unveil like that.
“He has the potential to lift both the club and the league and our administrators must take advantage of his presence to promote the local league.