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Gor Mahia team manager Victor Nyaoro has asked for fans to remain patient in new head coach Leo Neiva's work, condemning the violent acts witnessed following their clash with Murang'a Seal
Gor Mahia Team Manager, Victor Nyaoro, has spoken out against a recent surge in hooliganism from a segment of the club's fans frustrated with recent performances.
The recent incidents reflect a troubling pattern: following a loss to Nairobi City Stars, team captain Philemon Otieno was confronted by angry fans, who demanded answers after some of the players featured in an unsanctioned friendly for A Mosquito FC.
Just days later, after a 2-2 draw with Murang’a Seal, the coach and some technical staff members faced similar treatment from irate supporters.
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05:20 - 05.11.2024
Opinion: It is a shame hooliganism in Kenyan football still exists in 2024
There were a few cases of hooliganism last weekend after Gor Mahia drew with Murang'a Seal and AFC Leopards were humbled by Ulinzi Stars, with a section of fans attacking coaches at full time.
Fans' impatience led to scenes of plastic seats being thrown, which forced security personnel to intervene and police to use tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Nyaoro expressed disappointment over fans confronting the head coach and technical team, urging supporters to understand that such actions only worsen the situation for the record champions.
“It is quite disturbing to see what some fans are doing,” Nyaoro stated as quoted on Citizen Digital . “Accosting the head coach will not solve our problems. We still have a long way to go, and most likely, things will get back to order soon.”
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05:15 - 04.11.2024
Protect our game: Leo Neiva, Tomas Trucha and the urgent call to end fan violence in football
Over the weekend, fan frustrations boiled over into chaotic scenes at Kenyan football matches, sparking urgent calls for respectful sportsmanship.
The team manager advised fans to seek alternative, non-violent ways of expressing their concerns. Nyaoro cautioned that resorting to aggression would add further strain to the defending champions, who are navigating a period of adjustment under Brazilian coach Martins Neiva, who joined the team less than six months ago.
“How can you insult a coach just because a team has drawn?” Nyaoro questioned. “This is pathetic. Our club has done away with hooliganism, and trying to bring it back is unacceptable.”
Nyaoro also reminded fans of the club’s history and resilience, noting that even under former coach Jonathan McKinstry, the team started with just 17 players and went on to clinch the league title. He emphasized the importance of giving the current coach time to assess and address the team's challenges.
With hooliganism on the rise, Gor Mahia risks facing serious consequences, including potential bans from their home ground, Kenyatta Stadium.
Nyaoro highlighted that similar incidents in 2014 led to a temporary ban from using Kenyatta Stadium after fans caused significant damage following a loss to Sofapaka.
“The Federation can sanction us if this behavior continues,” warned Nyaoro. “Fans must understand that any game can end in three ways: a win, a draw, or a loss.”
Gor Mahia’s management is exploring various strategies to address the root causes of the team's recent performance issues, including holding discussions with players to identify possible internal issues.
In the meantime, Nyaoro urged fans to support the team and exhibit patience as Coach Neiva works on restoring the club’s success.
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