The CECAFA 2015 is over. We have learnt our lessons and GOR Mahia FC is the number 2 team in East and Central Africa. Not a bad ranking for the young K’ogalo team. Congratulations.

The first lesson learnt is that K’ogalo must tighten their defense. This was evidenced in all matches for Gor conceded a goal in every game they played.

Secondly they must have defensive midfielders who can play deep if the tide is strong. The Gor team that won the Mandela Cup in 1987 had this quality and this was made possible by a fullback turned midfielder in the name of Isaiah Omondi ‘Janabi’ The pendulum role must be well played not only in the full back role but also the midfield.

Thirdly, Gor must have more quality players in the bench because it was clear that some of our players were playing with injuries.

Lastly, the team must learn to have many game plans so that they have different approach for every game. Azam is a defensive team and were just waiting to draw first blood and then go back to their shell and defend the Goal till the end of 90 minutes. They respected K’ogalo and were more cautious.

These young K’ogalo players made us proud and i believe their victory was just postponed and will be coming soon. They brought joy to all Kenyans who love football despite the last hurdle which they could not jump.

Reaching the finals of this tournament is not easy and I send my hearty congratulations to this young great GOR Mahia FC. May you stay together as a team for the next 3 years and i am sure you will be targeting a continental trophy.

James was part of the victorious 1985 squad, the last Gor team to lift Cecafa Kagame Cup.

Collins Okinyo

Ex- CAF Media Expert. An expert on African football with over 15 years experience ,always with an ear to the ground with indepth knowledge of the game. I have worked for top publications including 7 years at www.supersport.com until i founded www.soka25east.com to quench the thirst of football lovers across the continent. I have trained young upcoming journalists who are now a voice in African football.I have covered World Cup,AFCON,CHAN,Champions League,Confederations Cup,Cecafa,Cosafa,Wafu and many other football tournaments across the World. Founder Football Africa Arena(FAA),Founder www.afrisportdigital.com