• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 17 hrs ago

Defending league champions Police slow down Gor Mahia's charge to the title

Gor Mahia were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Kenya Police in a tense Kenyan Premier League match on Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium.

The result slowed Gor Mahia’s march towards a 22nd league title after Kenya Police denied them all three points with a late equaliser.

Police looked set for victory after Brian Chonjo gave them the lead in the 22nd minute. The striker reacted quickly after Gor Mahia failed to clear the ball inside the box and calmly finished past the goalkeeper.

The match had started slowly, with both teams careful not to make mistakes early in the game. However, Kenya Police slowly took control of midfield through Charles Ouma and Asante Nana.

Police nearly scored earlier in the 20th minute when Aboud Omar fired over the bar from a free kick after Hernest Malonga had been fouled.

After taking the lead, Police defended well as Gor Mahia struggled to create clear chances. Samuel Kapen and Shariff Musa both failed to make use of good attacking opportunities for K’Ogalo.

Just before halftime, Gor Mahia came close to an equaliser, but Ebenezer Adukwaw’s header was saved by goalkeeper Daniel Ogembo.

In the second half, Gor Mahia increased pressure as they searched for a goal. Mike Kibwage shot over the bar in the 49th minute before Adukwaw missed another good chance with a header in the 57th minute.

With time running out, Gor Mahia finally found the breakthrough in the 87th minute. Patrick Essombe controlled an Onyona cross before setting up Ebenezer Assifuah, who finished from close range to rescue a point for the league leaders.

The draw leaves Gor Mahia on 65 points, seven ahead of rivals AFC Leopards as the title race continues. Their next match will be away to Murang'a Seal.