Gor Mahia face character test against Ulinzi Stars after drama-filled week

Gor Mahia will face a true test of character when they clash against Ulinzi Stars on Saturday afternoon in a Round 21 Football Kenya Federation Premier League match that will take place at the Machakos Stadium.

From losing their first match in the 23/24 campaign after 19 games (W12 D7) to the failed Benson Omalla transfer saga that rocked the club during the week, the record Kenyan champions will have their mental resolve put to the test when they host the military men.

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A 3-1 capitulation against Kenya Police last weekend saw the Johnathan McKinstry-coached side succumb to their first loss of the season as dreams of an invincible campaign were shattered.

Shortly after, Omalla, who is the current league top scorer, failed to complete his topflight move to Algeria after it emerged that the club was late in submitting the documents needed to finalize the deal, denying the striker a mouthwatering deal to JS Saoura.

ALSO READ: Exclusive: How Benson Omalla’s deal to Algeria broke down last minute

It is on the back of the dramatic-filled week that the club will be operating as they seek to at least maintain their gap at the top of the table which was since reduced to eight points when they face The Soldiers.

“Everyone was very frustrated after the Police defeat but there has been a real determination to put things right and to improve. It is a moment (the loss) that has helped us to refocus and to reflect.

We know Ulinzi is a team that causes a lot of problems, especially against us. We are expecting a tough game but our guys are looking good and we have managed to refresh a few legs,” McKinstry noted.

Regarding Omalla, it remains to be seen whether he will feature from the start of the game as McKinstry revealed he was given some time off to process the aftermath of events.

ALSO READ: Transfer Wrap: Gor Mahia, Ingwe add firepower as relegation-threatened clubs overhaul squads

“Omalla has not done the full week in training because we gave him a few days off to get his head correct. He was obviously disappointed but he is looking reasonably sharp and he is fit and available,” he said.

Ulinzi Stars on their part will be looking to pick up a third consecutive win when they face the table-toppers after recent wins against Shabana and Talanta.

Two other matches will be on the cards on Saturday with Posta Rangers taking on Kenya Police before the Gor Mahia match as Bandari welcome Nairobi City Stars at Mbaraki Grounds in Mombasa.

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Saturday FKFPL fixtures

Posta Rangers vs Police FC – Machakos Stadium| 1300EAT

Bandari vs Nairobi City Stars – Mbaraki Grounds | 1500EAT

Gor Mahia vs Ulinzi Stars – Machakos Stadium | 1600EAT