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The former Gor Mahia defender fears for the Kenyan Premier League's credibility due to his ex-team's dominance while they keep struggling on the continent.
Former Harambee Stars defender John ‘Bobby’ Ogolla has voiced his concerns about Gor Mahia's dominance in the FKF Premier League (FKFPL) and stressed the need for the team to translate their local success to continental glory.
According to Ogolla, the league has become monotonous and predictable due to the inadequacies and financial struggles faced by other clubs.
Ogolla, who played for and coached Gor Mahia for many years, cementing his status as a legend and cult hero, admitted to missing the thrill that came with different clubs contesting for the title in the late 90s and early 2000s, a period which there were nine different league champions.
Speaking to Citizen TV in an interview earlier this week, Ogolla criticised Gor Mahia’s competitors for their misplaced priorities.
“Lack of (serious) competitors has helped Gor dominate the scene with much ease and that is something that is affecting our league,” he said.
“The other teams need to strategise and offer some checks to Gor or else, they will be dominated for a long time.”
Gor Mahia secured a record-extending 21st title following a 3-0 victory over Murang'a Seal on Sunday. They could also win the title by a significant margin, potentially reaching 76 points.
Ogolla believes the continuous dominance by one team is detrimental to the league's vibrancy.
“They should be taking stock of their performances at the end of the season and ask themselves what Gor is doing to shine, and then invest in it,” he advised the other teams.
Since 2013, Gor Mahia have largely dominated the local football scene, with only Tusker FC breaking their streak in 2016 and 2021. Currently, Gor Mahia tops the league standings with 67 points, 11 more than second-placed Tusker FC with three games remaining.
However, Ogolla emphasised that Gor Mahia must now focus on replicating their domestic success on the international stage, where they have struggled historically.
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17:31 - 13.05.2024
Ex-AFC Leopards striker gives Gor Mahia tips on how to become competitive in CAF competitions
The former AFC Leopards and Tusker striker has explained what Gor Mahia can do to avoid repeating mistakes from the past in their quest for CAF Champions League glory.
The team’s best showing in recent years has been a quarter-final place in the CAF Confederation Cup. Ogolla stressed that performing well in continental competitions is crucial for the credibility of the team and the league.
“I also challenge Gor to replicate this form at the continental level because there is no need to dominate in Kenya then be knocked out at preliminary rounds in African football,” Ogolla stated.
“It will look bad on us, and our league’s credibility would be questioned.”
Ogolla’s remarks highlight the importance of Gor Mahia striving for excellence beyond the local scene.
Following the title win, the challenge now lies in preparing rigorously for continental competitions, improving their strategies, and investing in areas that will help them compete effectively on the African stage.
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09:44 - 17.05.2024
Tito Okello aims dig at Gor Mahia's Benson Omala amidst tight race for Golden Boot
Kenya Police striker Tito Okello has fired a provocative shot at Gor Mahia's Benson Omala in the race for the FKF Premier League Golden Boot.
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