Gor Mahia captain Philemon Otieno has expressed unwavering confidence in the side’s ability to bounce back from a run of disappointing results as they eye a successful Kenya Premier League title defence.
The champions have had challenges early in the season, but Otieno remains steadfast in his belief they can overcome the current slump and return to their dominant form.
Otieno urged his teammates to maintain a positive mindset in the wake of their tumultuous run.
“We are going through a rough patch but we will bounce back. We won’t let our recent results define us. We will keep working hard, grow from our errors, and come out stronger,” he said.
“We have a strong squad that can accomplish great things. All we have to do is stick together and continue to have faith in ourselves. We just need to refocus and put in more effort on the pitch.”
He also emphasised the importance of producing favourable outcomes.
“We must not linger in the past. Right now, the only thing that matters is the upcoming game and our strategy for winning it. We must approach every game with focus and resolve, giving it our all on the field.”
The 21-time Kenyan champions have won just two of their opening six matches, with an equal number of draws and defeats.
Their latest outing was a 2-0 defeat by Bandari in Ukunda, which left them 11th on the log with just eight points, nine behind leaders KCB, although the bankers have played two games more.
“Every opponent is out to defeat us because we are the champions. Our matches have become more difficult as a result,” Otieno said.
He commended the players for their commitment and diligence during practice.
“Our hard work will eventually translate into positive results on the field,” he said.
He urged their dwindling fanbase to come out and fill the stands to the rafters, saying this would encourage them to overcome their struggles.
“The support we get from our fans is incredible. It gives us extra motivation and drives us to give our best during this challenging period.”
Meanwhile, team manager Victor Nyaoro has urged the team’s loyal supporters to be patient as they battle to return to their best.
He denounced a recent uptick in hooliganism from a group of supporters who were upset with the glaring dip in form.
Nyaoro bemoaned the fans’ militant nature, saying such behaviour merely served to expose the club to ridicule and might attract the wrath of Fifa and the Football Kenya Federation.
“What some fans are doing is really unsettling. Blaming the head coach (Leonardo Neiva) will not make our issues go away. Things will probably return to normal soon, so we need to be patient,” he said.
“How can you disparage a coach
based solely on a draw? This is pitiful. It is unacceptable to try to revive hooliganism, which our club
has eradicated.”
