Security has been beefed up ahead of the Mashemeji derby pitting AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia on Sunday 22nd at Kasarani Stadium.
This was revealed by the Head of Security Mathews Waria who promised that bouncers will take care of the VVIP, VIP and hospitality tents. This has given fans the confidence to attend the match.
“We have engaged the police who will man the outside and inside perimeters, stewards will manage the inner perimeters and the pitch while the security guards will control the gate and the parking lot. The bouncers will take care of the VVIP, VIP and hospitality tents,” said Mathews Waria.
“We want Kenyans to feel as though they are part of the match; we want them to enjoy the game on safe grounds. We have also engaged supporters from both sides who have pledged to show discipline during the encounter,” he added.
Tickets for the game will be sold on the match day at a booth outside Kenya Cinema in town and at Gate 3, 4 and 12 at Kasarani Stadium.
Israel Mpaima will take charge of the Mashemeji derby match pitting Gor Mahia against AFC Leopards on Sunday 22nd at Kasarani Stadium.
The Mashemeji derby will be the only Kenyan Premier League game for the weekend and Mpaima, who is among country’s FIFA accredited referees, will officiate the match where he will be assisted by other FIFA accredited match officials, Gilbert Cheruiyot and Gladys Cheron
Peter Waweru, also a FIFA referee, will be the Mashemeji Derby’s fourth official while former referee Maxim Itur will be the match commissioner.
The match will kick off at 3 PM.
AFC Leopards coach Rodolfo Zapata says this does not worry him heading into the derby.
“We are very ready. A derby is won through team effort and I’m always positive. I respect Gor Mahia, but we have a rich history and they need to respect it too. I also strongly believe in my players. The difference between average and superior performance in any club always comes back to the quality of the players hired. The Chairman has brought several young players and the target is to dominate the league in the near future,” Zapata tells KPL
“All of them (new signings) are potentially good players. They however need time to adapt in a big team like AFC Leopards. For this reason, we must be patient in the development process. I need to work progressively and try not to confuse our youngster.” He adds.
The coach has also revealed the team could miss the services of five players ahead of the derby.
“Brian Marita, Dennis Sikhayi, Robinson Kamura, Saad Musa and Alex Oratamal couldn’t practice properly this week while our captain Duncan Otieno has 5 yellow cards and will miss the match.” He said.
Gor Mahia coach Dylan Kerr has also termed the match as “important” and urged his players to treat as such.
“The players are aware how important the derby is to the team and to the fans as well and they have to give it their all. Our opponents also know there are bragging rights in this one and I believe they are also looking to upset us. We will approach the match with the seriousness it deserves.” Kerr said.