Mashemeji Derby: AFC Leopards defender Ken Owino on key lesson learnt from previous loss to Gor Mahia

AFC Leopards defender Ken Owino (C) is looking forward to Sunday's clash against Gor Mahia. Photo || AFC Leopards

Mashemeji Derby: AFC Leopards defender Ken Owino on key lesson learnt from previous loss to Gor Mahia

Stephen Awino 13:45 - 27.03.2025

AFC Leopards defender Ken Owino believes Ingwe are finally in pole position to end woeful form against Gor Mahia in the Mashemeji Derby.

AFC Leopards defender Ken Owino has revealed why the team is better prepared to overcome recent woes against arch-rivals Gor Mahia in the Mashemeji Derby on Sunday at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Leopards have not had good fortunes against the FKF premier League champions in their recent outings.

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In their last five Mashemeji Derbies, Ingwe have won just one while losing two and drawing two.

In the 2023/24 campaign, they lost both legs of the derby as Gor Mahia went on to claim their record-extending 21st title.

However, the defender believes Leopards are better positioned this time round to overcome their recent poor form.

“The training has been going well. The mood in the camp is exciting and the boys are preparing well and understand the importance of the game, so we are up to the task,” said Owino speaking to Azam Sports Kenya, ahead of the fierce clash.

“Most of us last season we were playing our first derby that time (last season). This is second time and the motivation is high. We are going for the win,” he added.

The defender attributes last season’s losses to the squad not being able to gel in time for the derby with first time debutants for the high-stakes clash.

However, this season he believes the squad is better acclimatized to take on their fierce rivals.

Leopards who currently place fifth on the FKFPL log with 36 points, trail Gor Mahia (42) by six points in third, while Kenya Police lead the standings in with 45 points ahead of second-placed Tusker with 44.