Tusker vs Gor Mahia: Identifying key players for the title decider

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FKFPL Tusker vs Gor Mahia: Identifying key players for the title decider

Kiplagat Sang 17:56 - 27.05.2023

Pulse Sports dissects the K’Ogalo and Brewers’ squads and picks out who are likely to play critical roles on Sunday.

With the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) hitting its homestretch, Gor Mahia and Tusker remain the fiercest rivals for the title.

They meet again this season on Sunday, and the winner will surely have collected points that could propel them to success.

By just dissecting previous lineups, one can make an educated guess on which players the coaches are going to deploy for Sunday’s critical mission.

These players have formed the core of starting XIs for both Robert Matano and Johnathan McKinstry, and they have solidified their places game in and game out.

So, who are the key players for Tusker and Gor Mahia?

Gad Mathews

Mathews has been an undroppable goalkeeper for K'Ogalo, and bar injuries or suspension, his place within the posts is almost assured.

Geoffrey Ochieng

Ochieng has proven to be a critical starting player, as he is solid when it comes to defending. He has always charged forward to provide numbers when Gor Mahia are attacking.

Additionally, his precise crosses into the box have been problematic for the opponents.

Philemon Otieno

For the same reasons as Ochieng’s contribution, Otieno has been a key figure for McKinstry since winning back his place from the budding Paul Ochuoga. 

He is the captain and has carried out the leadership duties with exceptional excellence.

Ernest Wendo

Given the stakes the game carries, Wendo will surely be started if he is fit.

He was outclassed by AFC Leopards Musa Oundo during the Mashemeji derby and should aim for self-repair against Tusker.

Benson Omala

Arguably the best player for Gor Mahia in the season with his goals winning his side numerous points.

He is leading the Golden Boot race and will hope to score and add more to his tally so as to keep some distance between him and his closest rival, Elvis Rupia of Police.

He missed a penalty against Leopards, and thus the match against Tusker gives him an opportunity to redeem himself.

Key players for Tusker

Brian Bwire

His position is critical when it comes to such matches after being installed as the number one following the departure of Patrick Matasi to Kenya Police FC.

Bwire’s main objective is to help his side keep a clean sheet against their close rivals.

Charles Momanyi

The former Kakamega Homeboyz and Gor Mahia defender has proven to be a solid center-back and has also scored vital goals for the Brewers.

Facing his former side, the main objective would be to keep the attackers at bay and possibly score a goal or two, especially from the set pieces.

Humphrey Mieno

The former Gor Mahia ace always provides stability in Tusker’s midfield, and his experience and height can come in handy for the reigning champions.

Mike Oduor

The winger continues to prove that he is one of the most impactful signings of the last transfer window by scoring vital goals.

One of the players that Gor Mahia must keep a close watch on, otherwise he might end up causing problems.

Zakayo Eric

He has been a mainstay in Matano’s line-up this season, and having a good day and top performance against the record champions is the only way he can repay the coach’s trust in him.