Gor Mahia head coach Johnathan McKinstry has urged fans to turn out in large numbers and support his charges against Shabana at Mamboleo Stadium, Kisumu, on Saturday.
“I will just say... ‘come and pack the stadium’. Be there early. The nature of the day is that if our fans arrive late in the stadium, they might turn up and find a lot of red shirts in the stadium because Shabana fans aren’t travelling from far,” McKinstry said.
“I ideally want to see only green on Saturday. I want to see 12,000 or 15, 000 people in green cheering the team on.”
The champions must win three of their final six matches to seal a record 21st title.
K’Ogalo lead the standings with 60 points, nine points clear of second-placed Kenya Police, who target a first-ever championship.
McKinstry said they are wary of the threat posed by Shabana, who are clutching at straws to avoid relegation. The Kisii-based club are 15th on the log with 28 points.
“We have to win matches to win the championship, while for Shabana, they have to win matches to move away from the relegation zone,” McKinstry remarked.
“We anticipate an uphill task and it will be exciting to play them. We have prepared well and I think my players will be respond to whatever queries Shabana may have.”
Gor emerged victorious in the first leg at Homabay Stadium, with Rooney Onyango’s one goal separating the sides at full-time. However, McKinstry expects a different ballgame after their opponents overhauled the technical bench.
“Shabana has a different coach, players and style of play. They will come full force for a win but we are ready to handle them whichever way,” said the Northern Irish coach.
“If we continue with this form, then the prizes will be handed out soon.”
In a Dandora Stadium double-header, Bidco United host Kakamega Homeboyz while Kariobangi Sharks flex muscles with Sofapaka.
Ulinzi Stars have a date with Muhoroni Youth FC at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Nairobi. Bandari lock horns with Posta Rangers at Mombasa Sports Club as Nzoia Sugar host KCB at Sudi Stadium in Bungoma.
In Sunday’s double-header at Dandora, Tusker have an uphill task against Murang’a Seal with Talanta battling AFC Leopards. Kenya Police host Nairobi City Stars at Police Sacco Stadium.
