Williamson eyes redemption after Charity Cup false start


The last time Gor Mahia played in the CAF Champions League was in 1996 and they were eliminated in the first round by Dynamos of Zimbabwe triggering fans riots in Nairobi.

Bobby Williamson

Almost two decades later, Gor returns to the continental stage on Saturday hoping to do better when they host US Bitam of Gabon at Nyayo National Stadium.

Coach Bobby Williamson has set his sights high pointing out their poor performance in Sunday’s Kenya Power Charity match against Sofapaka — which Gor lost 3-1 — as a motivation factor for them to do better.

“The delay experienced before the second half kicked off affected our players. We played very well in the first half though we failed to convert many chances that came our way.

“The second half was completely different and we were not just in the game. It is a big disappointment for everyone involved but as a team we look at it as a motivation to do well in the CAF Champions League match on Saturday,” he said.

Unknown opponent

Williamson admitted he does not know anything about their opponents but has an opportunity to watch them in the first leg and this gives him a chance to prepare better for the return match after a fortnight.

“They also don’t know much about us and that gives us an advantage as well. It is only after the first leg that we can both have an idea about each team’s strength and weakness and prepare well,” he said.

Regarding Gor’s training, the Scott said he is satisfied with the kind of preparations the team has had.


“We have played a number of good build-up matches giving me an opportunity to try out all the players. This has also saved us from incurring injuries especially to our key players,” he revealed.

Previous injuries

However, even with that, Gor Mahia still lost two players — Kevin Omondi and Timothy Wanyonyi —  injured during a friendly match against Nakumatt two weeks ago.

“It is unfortunate that we will not have the two players after they picked injuries. It is a big set-back for us but we will do without them,” said the coach.

Williamson has also expressed concern that his team has not been allowed to train at Nyayo Stadium where they will play their matches on Saturday.

“We will play the match on grass but unfortunately we have been forced to train on astro-turf. The management at Nyayo Stadium insist the facility is not ready but as a home team we need to use it before the match. This is a big concern for us and we hope it can be resolved quickly,” said Williamson.

The Champions League is the most lucrative competition for African clubs and features local league winners from all the 54 countries. The competition boasts prize money of Sh120million for the winner. The runners-up pocket Sh85million. Teams start earning money from the second round of the competition where no Kenyan club has ever reached.

By GILBERT WANDERA, The Standard

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