By Samuel Gacharira,
Machakos will be painted green this Sunday when the Green Army troop in trademark club colors as Sofapaka square it out with Gor Mahia. This top of the table clash is expected to produce fireworks if the prematch build up is anything to go by.
A moment of brilliance from Patrick Oboya with two minutes left to play saw a back heel flick set up Dan Sserunkuma for the winner, a result that ensured Gor Mahia were crowned champions last season. Fast forward to this season, the two sides go head to head in a title decider.
The first leg tie ended 2-1 in favor of the defending champions who enjoy a fine record over their perennial opponents. Sofapaka have only picked two points out of 7 league ties in the past three seasons while their nemesis have emerged victorious five times.
In Sofapaka, Frank Nuttal faces an opposition that could provide a real test to his tactical acumen. Although still unbeaten since taking over reins over a month ago, he is well aware that the outcome of this match would either earn him praise or blame in equal measure from the avid K’Ogalo faithful. A win will be the main agenda for him come Sunday.
His opposite number Sam Timbe knows that a win will reduce the gap between them and the leaders to one point and put them within sight of title glory. The morale in his camp is at the peak following their 2-0 win over AFC Leopards to book a place in the GOtv Shield cup finals. Club president Elly Kalekwa has expressed the desire to see his men bag a double this campaign which makes this encounter a must win.
Musa Mohammed is available for selection after missing last weekend’s action due to suspension while the duo of Dan Sserunkuma and George `Blackberry` Odhiambo is expected to lead the attack for the visitors.
The hosts will welcome back Danson Kago and John Baraza to their starting l1 after resting them in the cup match while on form Ekaliani Ndolo will pull the strings in midfield alongside the experienced Maurice Odipo.