Benson Omala loses FKF Premier League Player of the Week despite Mashemeji Derby brace

© Shabana, Gor Mahia

FKFPL Benson Omala loses FKF Premier League Player of the Week despite Mashemeji Derby brace

Festus Chuma 11:43 - 12.10.2023

The sixth round of matches saw various impressive performances among them were Brian Magare, Benson Omala, John Kiplagat, and Erick Ombija.

Shabana FC's resurgence continues to grab headlines, as their sturdy defender, Brian Magare, was crowned the Football Kenya Federation Premier League Player of the Week. 

Last week's sixth round of matches saw various impressive performances from players across different teams. Among them were Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala, John Kiplagat of Murang’a Seal, and FC Talanta’s Erick Ombija.

But it was Magare's tenacious defending that caught the eye and the hearts of many. Playing in dual roles, both as a right-back and a midfielder, his versatility on the pitch was crucial in Shabana's slim yet historic 1-0 victory over Tusker FC. 

It was a game that saw Shabana tasting the sweet nectar of a top-flight win after a staggering 17-year hiatus.

 Although Vincent Nyabuto's header from Rodgers Aloro’s free-kick was the only goal, Magare's defending was the unsung hero, ensuring that Tusker's forwards were kept at bay. His diligence on the field played a pivotal role in Shabana's first top-flight triumph in nearly two decades.

However, the competition was fierce. Omala, the shining star of Gor Mahia, had a momentous weekend, netting two goals against their traditional rivals, AFC Leopards. This double strike was instrumental in Gor Mahia’s 2-0 victory in the iconic Mashemeji derby. 

Omala's efforts this season have seen him surge to the top of the goal-scoring charts, netting an impressive six goals, propelling Gor Mahia towards a potential 21st league title.

Similarly, John Kiplagat, representing Murang’a Seal, had a remarkable game, scoring both goals in their 2-0 victory over a struggling Sofapaka side. His precise strikes in the first half sealed the deal for Murang’a, leaving the Sofapaka side grappling for answers.

Not to be overshadowed, Erick Ombija of FC Talanta, while receiving fewer votes, stunned the league with an exceptional hat-trick against Kakamega Homeboyz. 

Even though Kakamega Homeboyz took an early lead, Ombija's consistent efforts ensured that his team walked away with a point in a pulsating 3-3 draw.

Yet, amidst these breathtaking performances, it was Brian Magare who clinched the coveted Player of the Week title. This follows Posta Rangers captain Kennedy Odhiambo’s win the prior week, marking a shift in the momentum of the league's fan favorites.