Gor close gap on leaders KCB as CAF June 30 deadline nears

Gor Mahia Samuel Onyango (left) and Titus Achesa of Sofapaka during kF Premier League match at Thika Stadium on June 20,2021.[Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Record Kenyan Champions Gor Mahia move to third in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League standings after narrowly edging out Sofapaka 1-0 over the weekend as the race to secure the solitary Caf Champions League by June 30 beckons.

Last month, FKF confirmed that the team leading the table on June 30, the deadline provided by Caf for submission for representative clubs, will be given the slot to represent Kenya in the 2021/22 Champions League.

Mathematically, Gor are out of the contention for the Caf Champions League slot with leaders KCB five points ahead of the defending champions.

Gor have one match to play before June 30, a match that even if they win cannot guarantee them top spot as they will be two points behind KCB.

KCB defeated relegation-threatened Mathare United 1-0 to solidify their chances of securing their maiden club international appearance as they remain top with 42 points.

As it stands, second-placed Tusker is the only side that can leapfrog KCB as they sit only one point behind the bankers with two matches to play before the deadline.

Tusker, who bounced back to winning ways in their 1-0 away win against Kariobangi Sharks will take on Western Stima on Friday before playing Ulinzi Stars on June 30, the deadline date provided by Caf for submission for representative clubs.

A win for Tusker in the two matches will automatically see them leapfrog KCB who only play one match before June 30. KCB will play Nzoia Sugar.

Meanwhile, Nairobi City Stars edged out Kakamega Homeboyz 1-0 to move sixth in the log with 29 points as Posta Rangers and Bidco United played out to a barren draw in the five matches played over the weekend.

KCB, Tusker lead the log with 42 and 41 points respectively followed by eternal rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards tied at 37 points.

In the relegation zone, Mathare, Western Stima and Vihiga United continue to fight to avoid the drop.