Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor believes the hard-fought 2-1 victory over APS Bomet in Kericho is the defining moment in their quest for a record-extending 22nd Premier League title.

In the hostile cauldron of Kericho Green Stadium, Gor Mahia did not just win three points; they exorcised a demon. Facing the very side that had humiliated them 4-1 earlier in the season, the champions showed the grit of title holders, digging deep to secure a result that could well decide the destination of the trophy.

The 2-1 victory over APS Bomet opens a commanding six-point gap at the summit of the FKF Premier League, putting daylight between K'Ogalo and their perennial rivals, AFC Leopards. For Akonnor, this was not just another match day; it was a psychological hurdle cleared.

A Test of Character

The match began with blistering intensity. Gor Mahia, stung by the memory of their first-leg capitulation, flew out of the blocks. Ghanaian forward Ebenezer Kofi Assifuah silenced the home crowd in the 7th minute, finishing a slick move to give the visitors the perfect start.

However, APS Bomet, playing on their home turf, refused to roll over. The hosts pressed for an equalizer, turning the game into a physical battle in the midfield. )But it was Gor Mahia who struck again in the second half. New signing Jackson Dwang announced his arrival with a crucial goal, doubling the lead and seemingly putting the game to bed.

Nervy Finish

A late strike by Bomet's Hansel Ochieng in the 83rd minute ensured a grandstand finish, but Akonnor's men held firm. The victory takes them to 43 points, leaving AFC Leopards trailing in their wake after Ingwe stumbled to a barren draw against Bandari.

• Gor Mahia: 43 Points (1st)
• AFC Leopards: 37 Points (2nd)
• Next Match: vs KCB (Feb 22)

"This was a turning point," Akonnor declared post-match. "To come here and win against a team that has been our bogey side shows the character of champions.\We are now unstoppable."