At the heart of Mathare United renaissance this season in the FKFPL is Daniel Otieno, a left footed offensive midfielder with a midas touch. Whatever he touches with his foot turns into gold. A graduate of the famous Gor Mahia Youth team of 2016, Otieno who is commonly known as Van Persie has a knack for scoring match winners, and has so far delivered five of such rare gems.The 24-year-old has delivered match winners against Wazito FC (1-0), Vihiga Bullets FC (1-0), Bidco United FC (2-1), Kariobangi Sharks (2-1) and Gor Mahia (2-1).##NAJAVA_MECA_7069121##Yet, the goal that secured the Slum Boys a famous 2-1 victory over K’Ogalo at Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday was particularly stinging, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of the loud and proud supporters of the record Kenyan champions. The coach Johnathan McKinstry’s side approached the match against a backdrop of a hard fought 2-1 over a star studded Police FC outfit and were on paper expected to make light work of Mathare United, who have struggled since the season began.Mozzart Bet Cup: Gor Mahia kick off title defence against Kibera SoccerBut the opposite transpired. Coming on as a 53rd minute sub for Steven Kimari, Otieno helped stabilize Mathare’s midfield, while giving more options in attack. His constant threat in the forward line paid off in the 83rd minute when he picked a loose back pass and pumped it past hapless Gad Mathews in goal.”It’s hard work and patience,” Otieno offered when probed by Mozzart Sport about his fine form.It was the second time Otieno was grabbing a winner for Mathare United against K’Ogalo in the top tier league. He scored the lone goal on his debut as the 2008 champions pipped Gor Mahia 1-0 at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos in 2019.Full minutes for Wanyama as Montreal fall againDenied a chance to join Gor Mahia senior team from the Youth Team by the much talked about “cartels”, who dictate transfer business at the club in 2016, Otieno says that’s a chapter behind him, but he’s open to a second coming.”Gor Mahia is a big team and a chance to play for them is always welcome,” he offered.The player is still tied to Mathare until the end of the year when his contract runs out.In the meantime, Alves, whose role model is PSG and Argentina forward Lionel Messi, says he wants to keep working hard and scoring goals.”I want to maintain the focus and keep working hard. I have big ambitions and I believe one day I will play at the highest level,”he stated.Thanks to Otieno’s heroics, Mathare United, who started the league late and on a rough note, are now clear of the relegation zone. The team is placed 15th on the log standings with 16 points from 16 fixtures.
