Gor’s Nzigiyimana Sportpesa/SJAK June’s best

Karim Nzigiyimana, Gor Mahia’s Burundian full back has been awarded as the Sportpesa/ Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) player of the month of June.

Nzigiyamana, a January signing by Gor from Rwandese side Rayon Sport has been impressive for the unbeaten KPL leaders and was an inch ahead of team mate Michael Olunga and Mathare United’s Eric Johannah in the final tally of the votes by the Association's football committee.

Nzigiyamana who has been superb defensively and offensively for Gor this season, has provided a total of four assists of the seven goals Gor scored in the month of June despite his position as a right back.

He is the fourth recipient of the award since its inception with team mate Ali Abondo having won the inaugural award, followed by Ulinzi Stars’ John Mark Makwatta and lately Western Stima keeper Gabriel Andika.

"You know, in my whole career as a footballer, no one has ever given me an award for anything and this is my first. I feel happy and really appreciated. I thank the people involved in this and I promise to work even harder now,” said the elated Burundian.

He added: “When I saw my team mate Ali get the first award I was very happy for him. But I told myself, I will work very hard and ensure that I receive it at least once this season as well and look, here we are, holding these gifts in my hand and I am really happy.”

The awards comes with Ksh50,000 cheque and a  45-inch television provided by SJAK’s newest sponsors LG.

He received the award as Gor congregated to head to the CECAFA Kagame Cup in Dar Es Salaam and the defender said he will be motivated by it to give his best.

Gor could miss Aucho and Gattuso

“We want to show people that we are not only conquering people here in Kenya but we can conquer East Africa as well. We know what we are capable of, we have a good team and I believe we will do well in Dar Es Salaam. Personally, I want to give my best and this award will be a huge motivation,”he added.

Gor will be scratching their heads with the midfield duo of Khalid Aucho and Collins ‘Gattuso’ Okoth doubtful for the opening match against Yanga on Saturday

Aucho limped off their 1-1 draw with Mathare United with a suspected groin strain while Aucho suffered a knock on his nose. Assistant coach Frank Ouna however is optimistic the two will be available for the tie.

“They are a bit 50-50 but I think Aucho will be fine. We will assess them on Friday and make a decision on whether to play them or not. But they are strong characters, if it is not something serious then they will be part of the team.”

On the team’s expectations:“We want to work hard and get to the quarter finals at least. Last year, we were eliminated in teh group without winning a match but this time, we want to do better.” Ouna noted.

His sentiments were echoed by club captain Musa Mohammed .

“We learnt our lessons because it was the first time in a long time we were playing in a regional tournament. We know what it takes to win and what we should do. Of course everyone wants to improve and we want to get to the quarter finals then plan everything from there. We have a good team, a crop of very ambitious players, those who know what should be done at the highest level and I am confident we can surprise many.”

Gor last won the CECAFA title in 1985 after beating arch rivals AFC Leopards in the final in Khartoum, Sudan.