Gor Mahia respond to hefty fine by Kasarani Stadium management
Gor Mahia have been banned from using the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani until they pay a Sh1.9 million fine following damages incurred during their Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match against Murang’a Seal on November 11, 2023.
Sports Kenya Director General Pius Metto told Nairobi News that K’Ogalo, as Gor Mahia are popularly referred to by their fan base, have to pay the amount before they are allowed to play any other game at the venue.
“I have written to them on the level of damage which totals Sh1.9 million. The fine arises from the damage to electrical tunnels, seats, wooden panels, and other facilities. If they don’t pay, then they won’t use the stadium for their matches,” said Metto.
Gor were scheduled to face Azam in a friendly match at the venue this weekend which falls on the Fifa international break. Their next league game at the venue is against Kariobangi Sharks on December 3, 2023.
“Apart from the ban, we want an elaborate action plan on how to contain their fans in future matches. If they don’t give me that plan, then they will also not use the facility. The fine must be accompanied by an elaborate plan,” added Metto.
Gor Mahia fans reportedly went on a destruction spree after the match which ended in a barren draw.
The irate fans are said to have been irked by the numerous questionable decisions by match referee Kevin Amol awarded Murang’a Seal.
The fans accused Amol of being an inexperienced referee as he has been handling National Super League (NSL) matches before this assignment.
Further, a sizable number of Murang’a Seal fans displayed fireworks during the game and were seen celebrating on the left side of the stadium, an action that triggered K’Ogalo fans’.
After the final whistle, K’Ogalo fans went for their Murang’a counterparts who could only afford to run and cry for help as they were assaulted.
The situation forced police officers to swing into action by firing teargas and rubber bullets in the air to scare away the fans.
As a result, both sets of players, officials, and journalists took cover on the playing field as tear gar fumes filled the venue.
Security officers who seemed unprepared took off and retreated.
“We are going to assess if the fine is factual with the damages caused because even AFC Leopards had caused fracas and damages at the same venue this season. We will only take liability where we feel our fans misbehaved,” said Gor Mahia Secretary General Sam Ochola
‘”We are talking with the management of Kasarani to expedite the process of fixing the damages caused. We ask our fans to be more come and handle themselves with decorum to avoid such fines. We also regret our actions and apologise for the chaos that took place,” added Ochola.
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