AFC Leopards defender eager to make maiden Mashemeji Derby appearance

Monday, April 15th, 2024 14:07 | By

AFC Leopards striker Arthur Gitego in training. PHOTO/AFC Leopards — AFC Leopards striker Arthur Gitego in training flanked by Kennedy Owino. PHOTO/AFC Leopards

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia are scheduled to face off on Sunday in the Mashemeji Derby which will be the return leg of the FKF Premier League action.

The match offers January signings Kennedy Owino, Kelly Madada, Arthur Gitego, and Christopher Koloti a chance to play their maiden Mashemeji Derby.

Waiting for AFC Leopards vs Gor

One of the players eagerly waiting to make his first appearance is Owino who joined AFC Leopards in the January transfer window.

AFC Leopards walk to the tunnel in a previous match. PHOTO/AFC Leopards/Facebook

AFC Leopards the acquired centre-back from Posta Rangers on a 2-year contract. Kennedy had previously featured for defunct Sony Sugar FC and Western Stima.

Interestingly, he started his career as a striker before switching to play in the defence. Though has faced Gor Mahia in previous clubs, this time round he is set to don the Leopards as they play the biggest rivalry in Kenya.

Owino heads to the match buoyed by his maiden goal for AFC Leopards which came against his former side Posta Ranger last Sunday.

The defender urged Leopards to turn up in numbers and support Leopards as they push to get a win after first leg disappointment.

“We have the Derby on Sunday ,and you know it’s the biggest game on the land. Preparations started immediately after the Posta Rangers game. Once again, we urge all our fans to come and rally behind the team. We will give a good account of ourselves. I can’t wait for my Mashemeji Derby debut,” he told AFC Leopards media.

AFC Leopards coach Thomas Trucha who made a few changes in his lineup handing debut to Gideon Were with Brian Wanyama and Owen Mboya making their first starts of the season against Posta Rangers will be hoping to have his players present for the Derby.

AFC Leopards injuries

Victor Omune missed out due to illness while Mousa Oundo and Kayci Odhiambo were out injured. The coach will be keen to have the players fit for the clash.

AFC Leopards celebrate a goal against Shabana. PHOTO/AFC Leopards/Facebook

AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia have been bitter rivals since they first locked horns on May 5 1968.

The two are one of the most successful sides in the league with Gor Mahia having won the Kenyan Premier League a record 20 times, while A.F.C. Leopards have 12 league titles to their name.