McKinstry reflects on 50 games in charge as Gor Mahia assumes league leadership

Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry marked his 50th game in charge with a 2-1 win over Kariobangi Sharks in the FKF Premier League at Machakos Stadium on Sunday 3 December.

Midfield dynamo Alpha Onyango, who was voted man of the match, and goal-hungry Benson Omala scored in each half to ensure that the Irish gaffer marked this milestone in style.

Ghai Panchol netted for Sharks; a cancellation of the Alpha's effort.

The win pushed K'Ogalo to the top of the table standings for the first time this season - a clear sign of intent as they gun for a record 21st title.

16 months later, McKinstry feels that he has managed to tremendously improve the team's performance over 50 games compared to the same amount of matches previously.

“When I arrived in Nairobi in August '22, the Gor Mahia chairman told me I was joining at the most challenging period of the club's recent history. A lean squad, transfer ban, and operating with a reduced budget,” the former Uganda Cranes coach reflected.

He has so far managed 29 wins 16 draws and five losses. Over the period, the team has scored 71 goals and kept 29 clean sheets. The win rate has improved by 58%, while the undefeated record has shot up by 90%.

“When compared to the previous 50 games, the results of everyone's hard work can really be seen. Number of Wins and Clean Sheets both improved by 53%. Number of defeats have reduced by 58%, whilst goals scored have increased by 45%, and goals conceded reduced by 31%,” the gaffer went on.

Gor Mahia remains unbeaten in 14 games this season and are clear favorites to clinch another league title.

McKinstry already boasts one league title won last year and the Charity Shield.

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