Okwemba urges tight security ahead of Mashemeji Derby in Homa Bay
AFC Leopards SC Jafari Owiti L is challenged by Gor Mahia FCs Ernest Wendo during FKF Premier League match dubbed Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo National Stadium on May 14, 2023. AFC Leopards SC won 2-1 . Photo Kelly Ayodi Sportpicha
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Speaking to Citizen Digital, Okwemba emphasised that the derby, featuring fierce rivals Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, is a high-risk encounter that requires proper security arrangements to prevent a repeat of the chaos witnessed during the Shabana vs Gor Mahia match at Gusii Stadium, where several fans were injured.
“The federation should work closely with Gor and the security personnel to ensure everything is in place for the derby. We don’t want to see a repeat of the unfortunate scenes at Gusii Stadium,” said Okwemba.Gor Mahia, the defending champions, remain in contention for the league title. Okwemba, a former AFC Leopards midfielder, believes that playing in Homa Bay gives Gor a significant advantage due to the expected strong support from local fans.
“The derby is always unpredictable, it can go either way. But Gor, being the home team and still chasing the title, might have a slight edge,” he added.Meanwhile, Police FC are on the brink of making history, needing just one win to clinch their first-ever league title. Okwemba attributes their rise to a combination of experience, strong management support, and a capable technical bench.
“The team has grown steadily since their promotion to the Premier League. They have a solid technical bench, great support from management, and they signed experienced players who’ve won league titles elsewhere,” noted the former international.
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