Bandari defends players after ugly confrontation in chaotic Gor Mahia clash
By Luke Oluoch, April 22, 2026Bandari FC has broken the silence over the controversy over the Sunday, April 19, 2026, clash against Gor Mahia at the Kasarani Stadium.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Coach Bernard Mwalala decried the confrontations witnessed after a late penalty decision went against the visiting team en route to the barren draw.
The gaffer delivered an equivocal condemnation of a section of his players confronting the match officials.
“The reaction from my players following the penalty decision was uncharacteristic and does not reflect the values we uphold as a club.”
Review of the chaos
“Upon reviewing the match footage, it is evident that I was the first to step onto the pitch to guide the players away from confronting the referee, ensuring that the match could proceed regardless of the decision taken,” part of his remarks read.
While terming the action of its players as heat of the moment, Mwalala stated that the reaction must be read in the context of the inconsistent rulings and decisions against them in recent league matches, adding to the narrative of inconsistent refereeing decisions after similar complaints by Gor Mahia through its leadership led by chairman Ambrose Rachier.
“While the reaction was driven by emotion, it is important to consider the broader context. In recent matches, we have experienced several contentious decisions, including a disallowed goal against Shabana, a highly debated penalty incident in the same fixture, a potential denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO) against Mara Sugar that did not result in a red card, and another disallowed goal in that match.
“Additionally, we had a penalty decision overturned against Bidco, similar to the situation in the Gor Mahia fixture, and a goal-line incident against Kakamega Homeboyz where play was allowed to continue despite the ball appearing to have crossed the line,” its statement read.
The Coastal Club concluded by affirming its unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of the game, respecting match officials, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism at all times.
“In all these instances, the team maintained discipline and respect toward match officials. The incident against Gor Mahia remains an isolated case where emotions briefly took over, and we acknowledge that it does not represent who we are as a club.” The coach statement concluded.