Kenya: Ingwe’ Leave Nothing to Chance Ahead of Title Showdown

Charles Nyende and John Ashihundu

19 July 2011

Nairobi — It may be just a fight for three league points but AFC Leopards are, as expected, treating this game as special.

After all, it is arch-rivals Gor Mahia they meet on Sunday.

Normally Leopards go to camp a day or two before a league encounter but this week the teams plans to start residential training from today to fine tune for, easily, the biggest league match-up of the season.

“Yes, this is a big match for us and the boys need to bond well. We will definitely keep them in camp for more days,” AFC Leopards chairman Alex ole Magelo said on Tuesday.

Assistant coach Nick Yakhama started the mind games by stating that the clash against might Gor Mahia is just “an ordinary game”.

“I know Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards have been rivals for a long time and command a large following which makes the match a high profile one. But all we are looking for are the three points,” Yakhama said.

Leopards will be buoyed by their weekend’s 2-1 away victory against Thika United that ended their six-game winless streak, but have paid a price for it.

Recently-signed duo of Francis Chinjili and Jimmy Bagaye both picked back injuries during the tie and are doubtful for the derby.

Delayed match

“They have sat out training for two days. We will assess them tomorrow (Wednesday) before deciding whether they will be available or not.”

Yakhama said. Leopards have switched their training to World Hope Centre as they look to take the first scalp this season against the old enemy in their delayed first leg match.

Leopards fans are, meanwhile, appealing to Gor, who are the home team, to make tickets available on a first-come-first-served basis.

This follows unconfirmed reports that Gor Mahia will reserve 80 percent of the tickets for their fans.

“We want tickets to be sold in all known locations such us City Stadium, Kenya Cinema, 20th Century, Nairobi West, Kawangware and Mlango Kubwa,” said Leopards assistant secretary, Geoffrey Mulanya.

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