AFC Leopards coach Fred Ambani extended his remarkable unbeaten run against arch-rivals Gor Mahia, as his side staged a spirited comeback to claim a 1-1 draw in the 97th edition of the Mashemeji Derby.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe result not only salvaged a crucial point for Ingwe in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) but also preserved Ambani’s proud personal record of never having lost to Gor Mahia, both as an AFC Leopards player and now as a coach.Benni McCarthy breaks down Harambee Stars squad selection ahead of Chad friendliesIn the decisive clash for Gor Mahia in their pursuit to retain the league crown, AFC Leopards fell behind in the first half from an Austin Odhiambo wonder strike, but rallied through a well-taken second-half goal by Brian Wanyama.The equaliser ensured Ambani’s unblemished derby record remained intact, much to the coach’s relief and delight.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963032##”I am thankful to my players because they protected me from the shame of losing the derby,” said Ambani after the final whistle.”I know that had we lost, the internet and social media space would be awash with all sorts of remarks. So I am really happy with their effort and character.”Cash-strapped FKF buckling under weight of soaring legal billsThe former AFC Leopards forward credited a tactical halftime pep talk for the team’s improved second-half display.Ambani revealed that his instructions centred on composure, possession, and assertive attacking play, which are core principles he believes define his team’s identity.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963119##”In the first half, my players entered panic mode. I told them to avoid panicking and stick to the game plan. I told them, We’d rather lose while playing our way—possessing the ball and attacking more.’ And indeed, it worked,” he explained.”This country has to respect Wanyama”- McCarthy on Harambee Stars’ midfielder returnTactically astute, Ambani also identified Gor Mahia’s strength in midfield and adjusted accordingly.”We noticed Gor Mahia were good and aggressive in the midfield, so we had to push numbers into the midfield to contain them. It worked—we neutralised their strengths,” he added.##NAJAVA_MECA_8963055##The hard-earned point sees AFC Leopards remain sixth on the FKFPL standings with 47 points, just five behind the top five, a position that could yet be attainable in the final stretch of the season.
