Neglected Gor Mahia youth in financial hardship

The Gor Mahia U20 team has been facing financial difficult and often depends on last minute contributions in order to fulfill schedule obligations. So low is the morale that their performance in the KPL U20 tournaments have been below par. Despite having played together much longer than other KPL U20 teams and despite having won the Nairobi county leagues twice, the team has been unable to stamp their authority, culminating in shock losses in the KPL U20 tourney.

The financial difficulties come despite the senior team collecting a tidy sum from Sportpesa in terms of sponsorship. Reports in some quarters point to the fact that U20 team was founded by the Gor Mahia fans foundation which still runs the team. Yet the EC wants full control which the founders are not ceding.

Since we started preparing for the tournament two weeks ago, the boys have been really struggling because even getting fare to training and back home has been a great problem.

“Some of the players have been forced to trek long distances to and from training sessions. It is very perplexing to see fans collecting money to offer something to the players after matches.

“Even today (Wednesday), very few players reported for training ahead of our match against Muhoroni Youth. In fact, their morale is really down but I’m pleading with them to stay strong and honour tomorrow’s (Thursday) match.” said an official to goal.com

Often what happens is that the EC withholds funds until the last momemnt or does not release funds, prompting the team organizers to perform imprmptu harambees, pleading with well wishers to help facilitate trips. When contacted by goal.com. An agitated Ronald Ngala hurriedly said they had gotten the money for the Muhoroni match.

“They have got the money! They have got the money! Today!”

This is the scenario that has been playing out for the past year or so each time the side has to attend a Nairobi county match or a KPL U20 match. Fans should not expect results against Muhoroni.