Gor Mahia coach gets critical over referees' role in title race

Action during Gor Mahia vs KCB at the Machakos Stadium on Monday, April 4. Photo Courtesy: KCB FC.

Gor Mahia coach gets critical over referees' role in title race

Stephen Awino 18:38 - 07.04.2025

Tempers flared as Gor Mahia overcame KCB 1-0 in a rescheduled FKF Premier League fixture at the Machakos Stadium on Monday.

Gor Mahia head coach Sinisa Mihic has launched a scathing attack on FKF Premier League referees, raising concerns over what he alleges is biased officiating that could influence the title race.

The Croatian tactician expressed his frustrations following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over KCB in a rescheduled fixture, where tensions flared both on and off the pitch.

Originally set to be played on Sunday at Machakos Stadium, the Gor Mahia vs KCB clash was postponed due to a heavy downpour and pushed to Monday at the same venue.

The match turned out to be a gritty battle, with midfielder Austin Odhiambo’s well-taken set-piece goal proving to be the difference.

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What happened?

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Gor Mahia Head Coach Sinisa Mihic gestures on the touch line during a past match. IMAGE/Imago

While Gor Mahia celebrated the three points, the match wasn't without drama.

Mihic was sent off in the 49th minute after heated protests over what he described as “unfair play” and a series of questionable decisions by the referee.

In his post-match interview with Azam TV, Mihic didn’t hold back.

“First of all, thank you to the fans and the players. Their effort was amazing on every ball, every contact. I enjoyed the first half, we were more dominant with the ball,” said Mihic.

“The second half, we focused on defending the result because of the pitch and risk of mistakes. So we did not risk.”

However, the coach's tone quickly shifted as he addressed his red card and the overall officiating.

“Important thing I have to say sorry to the referee. It was not good from my side. I apologize. But we have eyes. We are not stupid. Right? Many wrong decisions and it's not just this game,” he said.

“I don’t know who is controlling the referees, but they should see the game. You can’t give 30 fouls, 25 for one team, without a single yellow card. We never had 8 minutes. I see some things in the league 8, 10 minutes if the result is 0-0. I start to be very suspicious now. I don't believe any referee anymore.”

Gor Mahia’s three-way battle for the title

Gor Mahia line up.
Gor Mahia are eying a record-extending 22nd FKF Premier League title.

Mihic’s frustration comes at a crucial point in the season as Gor Mahia finds itself in the thick of a thrilling three-way race for the league title alongside Kenya Police and Tusker FC.

The win over KCB brought Gor Mahia to 46 points, just three shy of leaders Kenya Police (49), with Tusker FC narrowly ahead in second on 48 points.

Significantly, Gor Mahia has a game in hand over both rivals, a potentially decisive advantage in the title chase.

The Match-week results favored the green army, as Kenya Police were held to a goalless draw by Nairobi City Stars, and Tusker shared points with Mara Sugar in a 1-1 draw.

The stage is now set for an explosive final stretch of the season, with every point, and possibly every referee's decision, carrying immense weight.

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