Tuyisenge on target in Gor Mahia’s victory over Mathare United

Rwanda striker Jacques Tuyisenge and Uganda Cranes left back Godfrey Walusimbi guided Gor Mahia to a 2-0 victory over a ten man Mathare United the Nyayo National Stadium in Kenya.

Walusimbi opened scoring before a second from Tuyisenge gave K’ Ogalo all three points taking them them to the second position on the table with 26 points; two behind leaders Tusker who are on 28.

K’Ogalo came into the match confident of a positive performance after winning away to Kakamega Homeboyz by three goals last weekend.

The milkmen came into the match anxious for a win after managing just three points from initial six matches.

Ze Maria’s men started the match on a positive note, dictating the tempo from initial stages of the game, with their visitors taking time to settle, as they found themselves pinned in their own half by the defending champions.

The hosts won a free-kick in a promising position in the 14th minute, courtesy of Tuyisenge, who was fouled by Mike Luvutsi.

However, the resulting free-kick was well cleared by Vincent Omumbo, and Thika United began growing in confidence after that incident.

However, it was obvious the hosts looked more comfortable. The visitors, against run of play, scored first through Shami Mwinyi, who unleashed a fierce strike which beat goalkeeper Boniface Oluoch in the 26th minute.

The goal was a wakeup call for the champions, who responded with some fine attacks, orchestrated by Tuyisenge clever runs, as well as Karim Nizigiyimana, who provided crosses. Agwanda should have leveled matters in the 34th minute but he did not manage to hit the target.

In the second half, Gor Mahia increased their tempo and it was no surprise when the Rwandese scored the leveler in the 54th minute, thanks to fine work by substitute Francis Kahata, who came in for wasteful Agwanda.

The Ugandan winger turned Mathare defender David Mwangi inside out before finding the top corner with a delightful curling effort that gave goalkeeper Peter Odhiambo no chance.

Mathare tried to respond with Coach Francis Kimanzi throwing on Harrison Mwendwa in place of fullback Noah Abich as they chased for an equalizer.

More woes for Thika United were witnessed in the 68th minute after goalkeeper Hamza Muwonge was sent off following a second bookable offense against Tuyisenge. Timothy Luda was sacrificed with Eliud Emase coming in to take charge between the posts.

Tuyisenge is summoned to the Amavubi friendly against Senegal ahead of the game AFCON qualifier against Mozambique.

Mohamudu Muhe