Blows and kicks were witnessed as the supporters clashed at the match venue, threatening to derail the league encounter
Chaos were witnessed in Muhoroni ahead of Gor Mahia’s Football Kenya Federation Premier League match against Wazito FC on Sunday.
Police were forced to fire and lob teargas in the air to disperse rowdy supporters who had been fighting outside the stadium following a melee at the match venue’s entrance.
Trouble started when a section of fans tried to force their way into the stadium just when the gates were being opened for the Gor Mahia team bus, leading into a fist fight.
The supporters overpowered security personnel at the entrance before kicks and blows ensued as rival fans went for each other’s jaguar.
Police had to lob teargas in the air to try and diffuse the situation and get things in order following the chaotic scene that threatened to derail the match.
The Muhoroni Stadium is known for its intimidating atmosphere with visiting teams finding it hard at the venue where supporters are known to throng especially during weekend matches.
FKF CEO Barry Otieno confirmed the incident while pointing the finger of blame at Gor Mahia supporters. “The federation has been following the incident with the security officers of both teams and the local police,” Otieno said in a statement.
“The brief we have gotten on the videos doing rounds is that a section of Gor Mahia fans came with the team bus and wanted to access the venue without paying. The situation has been handled and the match has kicked off.”
The ugly scenes bring back memories of hooliganism that has characterised local league matches in the past.
Wazito, who were the host team, could also find themselves in trouble if it established that they did not provide adequate security at the match venue given Gor Mahia are one of the teams with the highest number of fans in the region.
Gor are looking for victory to maintain their four-point lead at the top pf the table and put pressure on second-placed Tusker FC with five games remaining after Sunday’s encounter.
Wazito, meanwhile, look destined for the second tier as they sit second from bottom on the 18-team log with just 19 points from 28 matches.