Gor fans ecstatic over KPL win
Gor Mahia Kibera branch can now rest easy and sleep pretty; the Kenyan Premier League title is in their cabinet.
The branch boasts of one of the largest following of the Green Army in the city.
Nairobi News caught up with some of the members of the Mathare branch during Wednesday’s game against Sofapaka which Gor won 1-0.
Seated on the east side of the stadium, the branch has a large banner identifying them with beautiful ladies commonly known as divas gracing the stands. Vuvuzelas rent the air and passionate fans sang their hearts out.
Pod aparo ka gi mayo wa, pod aparo ka gi mayo wa (I still remember when they stole from us, I remember when they stole from us), in reference to missing out on the title last season.
The atmosphere at the stadium was electric; you would feel at home if you’re new as spirits were high and people are welcoming.
Indeed, the branch has formed the backbone of the fan base for the team over the years.
Mathare branch was formed six years ago by a group of supporters from the slums who attended Gor matches together.
“We would assemble at one point and then proceed to the match, sit together and eventually after the game return home together,” said one of the founders James Owino.
Membership increased as the K’Ogalo bug struck the slum and fans began meeting at a local pub before heading out. That is when the idea of a branch was formed.
Committed
“By 2010, the numbers had risen to 500 and still counting.,” Owino said.
Wednesday’s game was no different for the fans. Having arrived at the stadium before the kick off, I found myself in their corner and decided to watch the game with them. They were passionate, committed and jovial.
“I began asking for permission from work since last week to attend the match”, said one of the fans.
Another closed his business by 2 pm to make it to stadium on time. The excitement as the teams walked in to the pitch was fever pitch and the mood was unmistakable.