Coach Pieter Hendrick De Jongh has reserved special praise for captain Martin Imbalambala after the AFC Leopards midfielder rescued a point in Sunday July 27, 2014 draw against arch rivals Gor Mahia. Imbalambala was at the center of attraction for a fine performance that was capped with one of the best derby goals of recent time. A poor clearance by the K’Ogalo defence found the 26 year old in space; the captain controlled the ball on his chest before riffling a left footed half volley that found the back tracking Gor Mahia Skipper Jerim Onyango napping.
With such a fine display, De Jongh says that his captain will be important to his plans as he tries to resurrect the Leopards from slumber.
“Imbalambala has been very loyal to the club and his display today has shown that he can take his responsibility well and carry the team.”
“When we gave him the arm band, we always knew that he was going to repay us well and he has just shown that today.”
“I am glad that he scored today and I hope that he continues with his fine form and hopefully plays for the national soccer team Harambee Stars.”
Meanwhile, Harambee Stars Technical Director Jacob Ghost Mulee has praised Imbalambala’s display against Gor Mahia in Sunday’s 2-2 draw. The former Harambee Stars coach says the player has regained his confidence and that will be key to helping Leopards push to a positive end of the season. Mulee has however asked “Marto”, to be consistent in all matches.
“He is a fantastic talent and one who can play in three different positions. The only thing that he has to work on is consistency. If he can maintain high form, I think we shall see him donning the national jersey soon.”
Imbambala’s equalizer was his first in the derby.
