M. KisengeLeopards defender Vincent Mahiga thrilled ahead of first Mashemeji Derby
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 03.10.23. | 21:55
Ingwe beat Gor Mahia 2-1 when the two giants last met.
AFC Leopards left back Vincent Mahiga can’t wait for his first Mashemeji Derby, as the defender will be bidding for playing time when Ingwe take on their traditional rivals Gor Mahia on Saturday at the Kasarani Stadium.
The Mashemeji Derby is regarded as the biggest fixture in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League as it brings together the country’s most followed, successful, and oldest clubs.
The two teams play for the three points and bragging rights, making it one of the fixtures players crave to play.
For Mahiga, marking his appearance in the derby with a win is all he wants.
The left-back joined the Leopards from Nzoia Sugar and has since cemented a place in the first team.
“I am looking forward to debuting in the derby with a win. Every player wants to play in front of big crowds,” said the former Chemelil Sugar defender.
Despite the Leopards struggling form-wise heading into the fixture, Mahia is confident of clawing Gor and ending their unbeaten run.
The Leopards are yet to win a game this season, having drawn four times and lost once. Gor on the other hand, have won twice and drawn three times.
“Our aim is to win the game and arrest our poor run. These are the kinds of matches for which past records and current form don’t matter. It is all about the fight you put on the pitch,” stated the former Kakamega Homeboyz man.
The fixture can make or break a player, given the stakes that go along with it.
Mahiga revealed that the older players at the den had shared tips on how to deal with stage fright successfully.
He highlighted their last weekend match against Shabana, which was well attended and was the best curtain-raiser for the derby.
“Players who have played against Gor before in the derby have been encouraging us (the new players). They have also told us to be composed and concentrate throughout. The environment may be intimidating, but we are ready for it,” he added.
