Gor Mahia FC captain Philemon Otieno has apologised to the club’s ardent fans following their shock 2-1 defeat to KPL minnows Nairobi City Stars on Monday.
The loss was a bitter pill to swallow for Gor Mahia supporters, who have become accustomed to success in recent years.
The record Kenyan champions with 21 titles already in the bag, had registered an unbeaten run before the game, having recorded two wins and a draw.
They now lie ninth on the log with seven points, albeit with three games at hand.
Gor Mahia head coach Leonardo Neiva had to be whisked away to safety after his charges crashed to City Stars who played with a man less after one of their players was sent for an early shower.
However, Otieno shouldered the blame and expressed remorse for the result, saying the players took full responsibility for the defeat and that the team’s performance was not up to the standards expected.
“We did not have a lot of players available for selection, but that is not an excuse. We still have a chance to make amends given the many matches that still lie ahead. This is our first defeat of the year and we will work hard to avoid a repeat of the same,” he said.
He acknowledged the disappointment felt by the club’s loyal fans and promised to do everything in his power to rectify the situation.
Otieno praised the fans for their unwavering support and dedication, stating that their presence and cheering at matches provide a boost to the team.
He expressed his gratitude for their support and apologised for the disappointment caused.
“I want to ask for forgiveness on behalf of the players as I mentioned earlier.”
Neiva was forced to rejig the lineup after missing the services of five key squad members who travelled to Juba with the national team, Harambee Stars, for the Chan 2025 qualifiers against South Sudan.
The quintet included Rooney Onyango, Alphonse Omija, Austin Odhiambo, Sylvester Owino and Geoffrey Ochieng.
On his part, Neiva challenged his squad members to step on the gas pedal in their subsequent fixtures.
“We had a terrible day at work
on Monday but we must accept the
reality that anything can happen in
football. Unfortunately, we lost the
match,” he said.