Gor Mahia floor Kariobangi Sharks to close gap on summit as AFC Leopards claw Bandari

AFC Leopards left it late to secure a 2-0 win over Bandari, stretching their unbeaten streak to five games in their final league fixture of the 2024 season which took place at the Dandora Stadium on Saturday.

 A minute of silence in honor of the late Ezekiel Otuoma preceded a cagey first half, with both teams squandering chances.

Leopards goalkeeper Brian Opiyo delivered an outstanding performance, thwarting multiple Bandari attempts, while Ovella Ochieng posed a consistent threat at the other end but was unable to convert several opportunities.

Ezekiel Otuoma has passed away at the age of 31, leaving behind a legacy in Kenyan football and heartfelt tributes.

The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute when Ronald Sichenje unleashed a clinical strike to give Leopards the lead. 

Captain Victor Omune sealed the victory nine minutes from time, netting his team’s second goal and securing their sixth win of the season.

The result propelled AFC Leopards to fifth place with 22 points, while Bandari dropped to sixth after suffering only their second defeat of the campaign.

Gor Mahia interim coach Zedekiah Zico Otieno is not worried with the pressure that comes with the job as he navigates through a challenging title race.

Gor Mahia toss aside Kariobangi Sharks

Elsewhere, efending FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia climbed to third place with a narrow 1-0 victory over Kariobangi Sharks at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos. 

Gedeon Bendeka’s opportunistic strike in the first half, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up between Luke Otiala and Ian Taifa, proved decisive as K’Ogalo moved to within three points of table-toppers KCB.

This victory comes on the back of Gor Mahia’s rebound from a 1-0 loss to Kenya Police with a confident win over Ulinzi, showcasing their resolve to challenge for yet another league title. 

Mathare United got one over Shabana to end their winless run as birthdayboy Ryan Ogam netted his 13th league goal in as many appearances to keep Tusker firmly in the title race.

Despite an intense second half, Kariobangi Sharks were unable to penetrate Gor Mahia’s disciplined defense, leaving the champions firmly in contention.

League outlook

Gor Mahia’s victory reaffirms their intent to reclaim the league title, while AFC Leopards’ late resurgence signals their determination to remain in the top-flight conversation. Both teams now look ahead to their next fixtures with renewed confidence as the FKF Premier League race intensifies.