Gor Mahia forward Benson Omalla has issued a passionate call to the club’s supporters to turn up in large numbers ahead of the much-anticipated Mashemeji Derby against arch-rivals AFC Leopards, set for Monday, 2 June at the newly-refurbished Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay. Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe fixture, which marks the 97th edition of Kenya’s most storied football rivalry, comes at a crucial point in the FKF Premier League season, with Gor Mahia eyeing a late surge in the title race.The club currently sits third on the log, and victory would see them cut the gap between them and log leaders Kenya Police to just four points, with nine points still up for grabs.Seven big names overlooked in Harambee Stars squad for Chad friendlySpeaking ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Omalla underscored the importance of fan support, emphasizing its role in driving the team forward.”I want to call upon our supporters to come in large numbers and support us,” said the striker. “When we see the green and white colours in the stands, it motivates us to give our all. We will not disappoint, we are going all out for nothing short of victory.”The fixture, originally slated for May 13, was rescheduled due to the unavailability of a suitable venue amid ongoing renovations at both the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium.##NAJAVA_MECA_8952852##It will now be hosted at Raila Odinga Stadium, adding a fresh chapter to the derby’s storied legacy.The reverse fixture earlier this season ended in a stalemate, with both teams failing to find the back of the net in a tightly contested affair held at Nyayo Stadium. Omalla, who is in his second stint at the club, having returned from his short-lived stay at Lebanese side Al Safa, described the upcoming derby as a must-win clash for the club’s title ambitions.Butere-based club in cloud nine after Mozzart Bet delivers sporting equipment”The Mashemeji Derby has always been a big game for every player,” he noted. “This time, it is even more important because maximum points are at stake. If we are to keep our title hopes alive, we cannot afford to lose.”A victory on Monday would not only narrow the title race but also see Gor Mahia extend their dominance in derby history.The record league champions have won 33 of the previous 96 encounters, while AFC Leopards have claimed victory 28 times.
