How Gor Mahia Beat Murang'a Seals Despite Second Half Scare [PHOTOS]

20-time Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League champions, Gor Mahia on Saturday, May 4 withstood a tense second half from Murang'a Seals to emerge victorious by 3-1 in the much-awaited SportPesa Derby.

Two of Kenya’s beloved football clubs squared off in the full view of fans who turned up for the thrilling encounter at the SportPesa arena in Murang'a County.

Both teams, in exceptional form this season gave a good account of themselves in the fast-paced and high-stakes game that kicked off at 3.00 pm.

Gor Mahia took the lead early on with a goal by Austin Odhiambo and looked like taking the game to the home side when Benson Omalla's spectacular header halfway through the first half missed the bar by a whisker.

Austin Odhiambo scores to put Gor Mahia in the lead against Murang'a Seals on May 4, 2024. /HANDOUT

However, Murang'a Seals rallied back when defender Brian Marvin, laid up a long ball at Gor Mahia's doorstep.  A spill by a Gor Mahia defender gave John Kiplangat a perfect right shot that found the net, levelling the scores by halftime.

With renewed confidence and the vocal home fans, Murang'a Seals pushed hard in the second half, causing chaos in the Gor Mahia half. John Kiplangat came face to face with Gor Mahia's goalkeeper only to blaze the ball over the bar.

Murang'a Seals would rue their several missed chances and their domination was short-lived when they conceded a second goal to Benson Omalla.

The Seals gave away a controversial penalty after Dennis Munyovi brought down Austin Odhiambo, in what Murang'a Seals fans felt was not a deserved call.

Ultimately it was Gor's game when Omalla found the net again, ensuring K'Ogalo left Murang'a County with a 3-1 lead.

"We started the game very well, and in control for the first 20 minutes. The first goal was fully deserved, but after that Murang'a Seal came back quite threateningly and eventually equalised.

"Even so we dominated 70 per cent of the game and we are pleased with the win and of course what it means for the table," Gor Mahia's head coach Johnathan McKinstry gave his thoughts on the game.

Gor Mahia, with a legacy that spans decades, is known for its passionate play and dedicated fanbase. However, Murang'a Seals' entry to the Kenya top-tier league, has proven to be a formidable opponent, quickly earning respect in the football community and a growing fanbase.

Juma Abdallah, Murang'a Seals' head coach, hailed his team's fearlessness against their opponents despite the defeat.

"We were ready and prepared to give a performance that our fans could be proud of. We respect Gor Mahia FC and we are not afraid to face them.

"With the exception of the penalty that rattled the boys slightly, I am happy with the way we handled today's game. We trained hard, and my players were hungry for victory", said Juma Abdallah, Murang'a Seals' head coach.

The win against Murang'a Seals puts Gor Mahia 12 points clear at the top of the table, with coach McKinstry expecting what might be a tough game against Shabana FC next weekend.

“We are thrilled to be part of this historic match that not only showcases the talent we have in Kenya but also brings together fans from all walks of life. It is a celebration of football, unity, and sportsmanship," said Willis Ojwang, the Communication and Advertising Manager, at SportPesa, referring to the well-attended match.

Murang'a Seals players battle with Gor Mahia players during the SportPesa derby on May 4, 2024. /HANDOUT