Gor Mahia manager Dylan Kerr has rallied behind his charges despite crushing out of the CAF Confederation Cup saying they did their best under tough conditions.
Gor missed a historic chance to qualify for the quarterfinals of the continental championship after losing 2-1 away to USM Alger in Algeria on Wednesday.
The 17-time Kenyan champs went into the crunch tie joint top of Group D together with the Algerians but were not safe and needed at least to avoid defeat to progress.
Two goals from Congolese Prince Ibara and Sayoud in each half however brutally ended K’Ogalo’s dreams in the second tie continental club competition.
Rwandan Jacques Tuyisenge’s late goal could only serve as a consolation.
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“We gave our best in this match and for me I will give credit to my players,” said the Malta-born Englishman.
The team had to grapple with near poor travel arrangements and was forced to spend one night in Casablanca, Morocco before crossing over to Algiers late the following day.
Coupled with hot and humid weather and a hostile environment at the 5th July 1962 Stadium it was always going to be difficult for the visitors.
“We know that playing in North Africa is very difficult especially at a time we found it tough to arrive here.
Getting this far is a great achievement,” Kerr added.
Having secured the Kenyan Premier League title for a record 17th time, Gor return to focus on reclaiming the “Sportpesa Shield” they last won in 2012.
The 10-time winners take on Kariobangi Sharks in the quarterfinals at Machakos’ Kenyatta Stadium on Sunday.
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