• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 1 day ago

Gor Mahia’s title decider against Mara Sugar moved to Wang’uru over security fears

Gor Mahia’s crucial Kenyan Premier League match against Mara Sugar has been moved from Awendo Stadium to Wang’uru Stadium in Mwea due to security concerns ahead of the highly anticipated clash on Sunday.

The match, which could see K’Ogalo win a record-extending 22nd league title, was initially scheduled to take place at Mara Sugar’s home ground in Awendo. However, concerns were raised over the stadium’s small capacity and the large number of fans expected to attend the encounter.

In a short statement released on Thursday through their social media pages, Mara Sugar confirmed the venue change.

“Wang'uru Stadium becomes our Home Away from Home as we face Gor Mahia this Sunday,” the club announced.

The decision came a day after the Football Kenya Federation directed Mara Sugar to look for an alternative venue for the fixture due to safety concerns.

The match will now be played at the 10,000-seater Wang’uru Stadium in Kirinyaga County, with kickoff set for 3pm.

Mara Sugar has also reduced ticket prices for the match. Regular tickets will now cost Sh300, down from Sh500, while VIP tickets will retail at Sh1,000.

Gor Mahia head into the match sitting top of the league table with 68 points. A victory over Mara Sugar would hand them the league title. They could also be crowned champions if AFC Leopards lose to APS Bomet in their match in Kericho on the same day.

Mara Sugar are eighth on the table with 43 points and will be hoping to register their first-ever top-flight win against Gor Mahia. K’Ogalo have won all their previous three meetings, scoring nine goals and conceding none.

Despite the venue change, Wang’uru Stadium does not bring back good memories for Gor Mahia. The club complained about the poor condition of the pitch after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Tusker there in April.

Head coach Charles Akonnor had criticised the playing surface at the time, saying the bumpy field was dangerous for players and made good football difficult.

Gor Mahia will now hope for a better outing as they move closer to another league crown.