Gor Mahia wary of Shabana's quest for a bounce-back

Gor Mahia will face Shabana FC in a highly anticipated midweek Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) at Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday.

Apart from the obvious three points on offer, pride will also be at stake, as newly promoted Shabana FC has brought with them a huge and expectant fanbase just like Gor Mahia's.

K'Ogalo coach Johnathan McKinstry, speaking during Tuesday's training, said that he's expecting a big fight back from Shabana, who were humiliated 4-0 by Ulinzi Stars on Sunday.

"We're expecting them to come fighting back. The minimum people expect when you've had a bad result is to come out to play with pride and passion," the Irishman said.

Shabana suffered their biggest defeat of the season so far at the hands of the Soldiers, prompting head coach Sammy Okoth to announce his resignation.

Yet, according to reports, Okoth, who guided the Kisii-based side back to the top tier for the first time in close to two decades, was back in training on Monday.

Gor Mahia, on the other hand, despite remaining unbeaten so far, has blown hot and cold.

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The defending champions have won four and drawn an equal number of games, including their Saturday game against Bidco United.

Yet, McKinstry is buoyant that his side will rise to the occasion against Shabana. "We expect a good game," he said.

"We know our guys are confident going into it; they enjoy playing in front of a large audience. We expect a colorful day in the stadium, and hopefully that energy transfers onto the pitch."

Gor Mahia could welcome back veteran midfielder Ernest Wendo, who has been out with the flu.

Rwandan winger Patrick Sibomana, who picked up an injury early in the game against Bidco, is doubtful, as is defender Emery Bayisenge, who was also injured the previous week against Tusker FC.

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