Gor Mahia FC head coach Jonathan McKinstry has issued a stern warning to his squad not to underestimate their upcoming opponents Shabana FC as they prepare for a pivotal match in the FKF Premier League this Saturday at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu.
The much-anticipated ‘Nyanza Derby’ could have significant implications for both teams at opposite ends of the league table.
McKinstry highlighted the potential threat posed by Shabana especially considering their coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo is a former Gor Mahia assistant and player.
“You can’t discount it. Obviously, Coach Pamzo knows K’Ogalo very well as a legendary player of the club and having been a successful coach here. He understands the psychology of Gor Mahia and will have a personal motivation to make a mark against his former team,” McKinstry.
Despite leading the table with 60 points, nine points clear of their closest rivals Kenya Police FC, McKinstry is taking nothing for granted.
“For us, the key thing is our guys thrive under the big occasion. In front of big crowds, more often than not, our guys turn up and bring their best performance. We expect a tough game because Shabana’s form has really picked up in the last few weeks, lifting them out of the relegation zone,” he added.
Shabana currently 15th in the 18-team league with 28 points has found form at a crucial time escaping the immediate threat of relegation with six matches remaining.
“It’s a bit of a free hit for them. No one necessarily expects a team towards the bottom of the league to take points off a team at the top of the league,” he noted.
Gor Mahia’s recent form has been impressive needing only three wins and a draw from their remaining six games to reach an unassailable 70 points.
McKinstry remains focused on the championship emphasizing the motivation within his squad.
“Our guys have the biggest motivation you can have, and that is to try and win this Kenyan Premier League Championship. We’ll be doing everything we can to make sure that happens,” he concluded.