AFC Leopards clawed star-tutted Kenya Cup holders Bandari FC 1-0 in a league tie last evening to give their new coach Ivan Minnaert the first taste of victory at the den, while sending a clear warning to arch rivals Gor Mahia of what may be in store for them on Mashemeji Derby.

New catch Kepha Aswani netted the lone goal which handed Leopards the second win on the trot early in the first half, at Nyayo Stadium. The Dockers had in their rank, former Gor Mahia duo of Dan Sserunkuma and Edwin Lavatsa, Edwin Wufula and Musa Mudde previously Leopards players.

“Ingwe” are now joined top of the Sportpesa Premier League with seven points same as Mathare United. Their “Shemejis” (in laws) Gor Mahia who play Ulinzi Stars today in Nakuru lie on the last page of the log table with just two points, and are yet to win a single competitive match this term.

The mood in the den is buoyant, fans are growing more confident of a better season, and they are not hiding it online, as the banter hots up ahead of Sunday March 6 Mashemeji Derby at Kasarani.

“If you Gor Mahia fans have noted, we no longer consider your fishy souls bantering rivals. We no longer respond to your wishful thinking because as hunters we have vowed not to lose sight of the elephant because of an incessant squirrel.” Ingwe diehard fan Legendo Benard posted on Gor Mahia vs AFC Leopards banter page.

K’Ogalo fans on the other hand are being cautious, but they will not take banter shots lying down.

“Leopards being in the top two of the table is like Chicken being on top of Burj Khalifa, no one knows how it got there but it will soon be down where it belongs.” Dan Opata, Gor fan.

A win for Gor in Nakuru today will animate K’Ogalo family which is currently embroiled in never ending internal politics, and give them the belief going into the Sunday battle.

@bonfaceosano