Do not shoot blanks – Gor Mahia coach Steven Polack gives stern warning to his strikers

Gor Mahia coach Steven Polack [Courtesy]

Gor Mahia coach Steven Polack has challenged his forwards to score more goals to ensure they retain the Kenyan Premier League title this season.

Gor strikers have in recent matches shot blanks, something that Polack aims to correct in a league that is competitive this season.

"I don't put pressure or castigate my players, but it is true my strikers have not been clinical enough in front of goal. They have been wasting a lot of chances more so in the recent match against Naivas.

“We have scored goals, but they have come by through teamwork and not individual effort,” said Polack.

Polack, however, acknowledges that teamwork has ensured that goals also come from midfielders and wingers.

“I have to acknowledge that winning is due to teamwork and it is our joy if any players scores,” added Polack.

AFC Leopards’ John Makwatta and Tusker FC’s Timothy Otieno lead the Golden Boot race with 12 goals each.

Gor Mahia’s Kenneth Muguna is tied with Wazito’s Elvis Rupia on eight goals.

The reigning defending champions are leading the KPL table with 45 points having played 20 matches.

They have scored the most goals (40) and conceded the least (13) goals this season.

Ulinzi Stars, currently on 5th position, have scored 28 goals and conceded 13.

Sofapaka FC and Gor Mahia FC during KPL round 20 match at Narok Stadium on Saturday. Sofapaka FC won 3-1. Feb 8, 2020. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

K’Ogalo booked a date with Posta Rangers in next month’s round of 16 of the FKF Betway Cup after Boniface Omondi’s last gasp strike secured them a hard-fought 3-2 win against Naivas at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday.

Omondi saved their blushes with a stoppage-time winner after coming twice from behind against the Division One side.

Despite the hard-earned victory, Gor assistant coach Patrick Odhiambo praised Naivas for giving his side a run for their money.

“It wasn’t an easy game. Despite fielding our regular players, we had to chase everything from the first minute to the end,” said Odhiambo.

“We were shocked by how things turned out especially in the first quarter. We are not used to such situations, but what helped us is experience, nothing else. We are fighting for everything this season; the Kenyan Premier League and the Cup.”

Rashid Hassan and Kinglesy Owuor scored for Naivas in the mouth-watering clash.