‘Gor Mahia have superior squad’ – AFC Leopards’ Tom Juma
By Joel Sang, October 7, 2023
Ahead of the Mashemeji Derby showdown at Moi International Sports Complex on Saturday, October 7, 2023, AFC Leopards head coach Tom Juma has conceded Gor Mahia have a superior squad.
Ingwe, who are yet to pick a win after five Football Kenya Federation Premier League matches into the season, will host the unbeaten rivals in what is the first edition of this season’s derby.
While acknowledging there are no easy games, Juma said their rivals, being the defending champions, have a superior squad.
“At AFC Leopards, there are no easy games. All games are tough, as all teams approach with the same mentality of trying to beat us.
“Of course, with Gor Mahia — a significant rival who were the champions last season and possess a superior squad — we understand the challenge ahead,” Juma said.
But the tactician, who has been exposed to immeasurable pressure with the ongoing winless run, said they are ready for the challenge.
Juma’s promise
“However, we are ready for that challenge. We will do our best to win this game and aim to secure a victory for our fans for the first time.
“We will play our normal game, and, of course, we depend on our fans to act as the 12th man, pushing the players forward,” he continued.
Awiti’s take
On his side, Jaffery Awiti, the AFC Leopards forward, said the players are motivated after receiving the best of preparations.
“As players, we were motivated for the game, so we were prepared to battle. We know it will be a good game, and we are glad that the coach has prepared us well,” Awiti said.
Awiti added that they are not under pressure, and a win could be a turning point for them in a season that has started in a manner that none at the club anticipated.
“This match could be a turning point for us and the fans. We are not under any pressure. The players are ready, and I am confident that we will secure a win to take home,” he concluded.
Gor Mahia will hope to win in order to close in on the gap with Posta Rangers, who defeated Nzoia Sugar in their week 6 match.