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Former Uganda Cranes head coach Jonathan Mckinstry, now at Gor Mahia, says every remaining game to the end of the season is as big, but the rivalry and history between the two clubs spices up the derby.
For the first time in nearly two seasons, the Mashemeji Derby is the talk of East Africa; the rivalry, which dates back as far as 55 years ago, pits Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, arguably Kenya's biggest supported clubs.
Former Uganda Cranes head coach Jonathan Mckinstry, now at Gor Mahia, says every remaining game to the end of the season is as big, but the rivalry and history between the two clubs spices up the derby.
"Any game is big at this stage of the season,” McKinstry said before adding.
“But when you add that fact to the rivalry and history between Leopards and us, it helps the game take a unique context.”
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15:00 - 11.05.2023
FKFPL Mashemeji derby: AFC Leopards top brass supports fans’ call to boycott clash with Gor Mahia
Ingwe supporters have called on each other not to attend the match with the club supporting the call despite their stadium ban being over
"We hope fans come in large numbers to be part of the story,” added the Irishman.
K'Ogalo come into this game top of the log on 63 points, two ahead of second-placed Tusker FC.
While Leopards sit ninth with 42 points, with all sides having played 29 games with five to go, and Mckinstry adds that this time they have enough time to prepare.
"We are looking forward to a competitive game on Sunday; it's one fans can't miss; the preparations are fine.”
“And unlike other games, we have a bit more time now (four days) for us to prepare, so everyone will be ready,” McKinstry added.
The Mashemeji Derby has also been spiced up by Azam TV, the Tanzanian leading pay-tv broadcasters have pumped in up to $60,000 only for one weekend, with all Kenyan Premier League sides set to benefit from the deal.
Azam will only broadcast two games, Tusker against Kariobangi Sharks on April 13th, while the derby is set for Sunday May 14th, all in a bid to earn the broadcasting rights for the KPL next season.
Gor Mahia is the most successful Kenyan club, having won 19 league titles and nine domestic cups, while AFC Leopards have only managed 12 titles and ten domestic titles.
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