Gad Mathews, Gor Mahia’s goalkeeper, hopes to return stronger next season despite missing much of the previous one.Gad underwent minor surgery at the start of the just-concluded 23/24 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season, forcing him to miss the majority of the season while recovering.##NAJAVA_MECA_8180844##Gad’s absence prompted the record league champions to recruit experienced goalkeeper Kevin Omondi from Sofapaka FC before the start of the season. Since his arrival, the seasoned shot-stopper established himself as a regular starter between the Gor Mahia goalposts in the absence of the former Kisumu All Stars goalie, and he went on to win the Golden Glove award.Despite only getting a few minutes under his belt in the final stages of the season, the former Kariobangi Sharks goalkeeper expressed his displeasure during his recuperation period while also expressing happiness after healing. “It’s been a tough year for me because I had a terrific season before the one that just concluded, and I was hoping for a stronger campaign. However, I had an issue that needed minor surgery, and I had to sit out to thoroughly recover from the surgery,” he explained.Prior to the recently finished season, the technically skilled goalie had a remarkable performance in his second season at Gor Mahia. That year, Gad finished a brilliant season by earning his maiden Kenya Premier League title and the Golden Glove award after keeping 17 clean sheets, albeit tied with Humphrey Katasi then with Nzoia Sugar FC.WPL: Kenya Police Bullets poised for Wednesday coronation as relegation battle continuesFollowing a season of limited appearances, the right-footed goalkeeper has promised to return stronger next season. However, he will have to contend with Omondi for the starting role as Gor Mahia’s mainstay between the sticks ahead of a demanding season for K’Ogalo. “We have a great goalkeeping department and, undoubtedly, healthy competition. However, I am working relentlessly to reclaim my spot on the team and perhaps play a role in the future, though I anticipate stiff competition from my fellow custodians,” he added.Additionally, Gad, who rose to prominence in his debut season at Gor Mahia in 2021/22 after making back-to-back penalty shootout saves against Bidco United and the AFC Leopards to lead K’Ogalo to their first domestic cup title in eight years, congratulated his counterpart Omondi on his dream debut at the club, calling it a perfect start and welcoming healthy competition from the former now-defunct Sony Sugar rookie.”Congratulations to Kevin. He had a fantastic start to life at the club, although it wasn’t without its trials, and I’m pleased he performed admirably. I’m definitely looking forward to healthy competition from him next season,” he said.Bichiok confident of Nairobi punching ticket to promotion/relegation playoffs
