The first leg of the 2019/2020 Mashemeji derby pitting Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards was played on Sunday at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani.
Gor Mahia emerged victorious after thrashing Leopards 4-1.
Here 3 key takeaways from the match:
1. Tale of two halves
The energy surrounding Kasarani stadium was at premium during the first half as the Leopards dominated the game.
All momentum appeared to be on Ingwe’s side as they continued to build from the back which made Gor make many mistakes, but were lucky not to concede.
Unfortunately for Ingwe, games are not won only in one half of play.
Full credit to Gor’s players, towards the end of the first half they seemed tired, but they came back with amazing intensity and belief in the 2nd half.
2. Gnamien Yikpe announced himself to the KPL
The quality of Kogalo’s new designated striker was on display right from the start.
Yikpe showed the ability to get away from his markers, and power home a thunderous header from Kenneth Muguna’s corner to put Kogalo in the lead.
He put AFC's defenders under serious pressure after he was picked by Cliftone Miheso inside the box, and smashed beyond Benjamin Ochan to complete his brace.
3. Mashemeji derby is slowly reclaiming it's lost glory
Over the past few years, the Mashemeji derby attendance has been on a downward trend. However, during yesterday's derby, the attendance was way better, an indication that the derby was slowly regaining it's lost glory.