• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 7 days ago

Gor Mahia face APS Bomet test as KCB and Mathare chase first win

Gor Mahia will be out to strengthen their early-season title ambitions, but APS Bomet have a reminder of their ability to upset the record Kenyan champions as the two sides meet in the Sportpesa League on Saturday.

The match at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay presents Gor Mahia with an opportunity to build on their opening-day victory, while Bomet will be hoping to reproduce the performance that saw them beat K’Ogalo convincingly last season.

Gor Mahia began their 2026/27 campaign with an entertaining four-two victory over Murang’a Seal on Tuesday, October 13, a result that placed them at the top of the standings on goal difference.

However, conceding twice in that encounter exposed defensive weaknesses that head coach Charles Akonnor will be keen to address before facing a side that has previously troubled the league heavyweights.

APS Bomet famously defeated Gor Mahia four-one at Nyayo National Stadium during their debut season in the top flight last term. Hansel Ochieng, who has since joined Gor Mahia, scored twice for Bomet in that memorable victory.

Gor Mahia later responded with a two-one win in the return fixture at Kericho Green Stadium, leaving Saturday’s meeting finely poised.

Akonnor has acknowledged the threat posed by Bomet, praising their coach for his work in helping the team secure their top-flight status last season.

The Ghanaian tactician wants his players to maintain their attacking momentum, control possession and improve their defensive organisation as they pursue another three points.

Meanwhile, KCB will be seeking their first victory of the new campaign when they host Mathare United at Police Sacco Stadium.

The Bankers were held to a draw by Nairobi United in their season opener and will be looking to convert their chances into goals against a Mathare side that also has ambitions of making a strong start.

KCB head coach Robert Matano will rely on his experience as the three-time league-winning tactician looks to guide his team to maximum points.

Midfielder Brian Ouru, who is set to face his former club Mathare United, says KCB have worked on their finishing during preparations for the encounter.

The two teams shared the spoils in last season’s meetings, with Mathare winning the first leg one-nil before KCB claimed a two-one victory in the return fixture.

With both matches offering an early opportunity to gain momentum, Gor Mahia will be aiming to maintain their winning start, while KCB and Mathare United battle to secure their first three points of the season.