Gor Mahia coach praises players for character, fighting spirit in win over Murang'a Seal

Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor praised his team for the character and fighting spirit they displayed during their stunning 3-2 comeback victory over Murang’a Seal at Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday, 14 January.

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Akonnor admitted to being a bag of nerves through-out the entire match that saw K’Ogalo go 2-0 behind in the first 18 minutes, before pulling off a revival in a frenetic second period.

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Having seen Joe Waithira and Francis Memusi score in the first half, conventional wisdom would have predicted a Gor Mahia loss, given their inability to come back from losing positions this season.

However, the hosts scored thrice in the second half, marking a new high for the men in green, who with the win usurped fierce rivals AFC Leopards to take control of the league table.

Almost lost for words, Akonnor recalled the talk he had with his players at half time, which he believes played a role in the memorable victory.

“When we went into the dressing room, I wanted to give them (players) an inspirational talk and I think I told them to do something extra; something we have never taught them, and that is from them,” the Ghanaian tactician said.

His message definitely hit the right notes, as Gor Mahia equalized just four minutes after the break, courtesy of quickfire goals from Felix Oluoch and Paul Ochuoga.

The winner would take till the 82nd minute, when new signing Ebenezer Assifuah rose from the bench to tap home, giving Akonnor a reason to finally smile.

Reflecting on the second half, the 51-year-old said: “When we came back, we also had that quick goal, but I think the players showed character today. It took a lot of nerves, but they did so well and showed that they are Gor Mahia. Normally we have struggled when we are behind, and I told them.

2-0 was very difficult, but I am so proud and excited of the character and fighting spirit the team showed today. We are here.”

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Casting his eyes forward, Akonnor viewed the win as one that would catapult Gor Mahia in future.

“This is what we have been looking for,” he said. “I am just so proud of what the players have done, and what they have shown to us as a technical bench, is there is a lot of hope for the future.”

Their immediate future comes in the shape of another fixture on Sunday, 18 January against Mara Sugar.

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