George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo in a past Harambee Stars match.Photo/MICHEZO AFRICA

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 18 – Gor Mahia forward George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo has made a return to the national football team Harambee Stars after being included in a 19-man provisional local based squad to take on Mozambique in a friendly match September 2 in Maputo.

Blackberry, who is enjoying a superb form with his Gor Mahia team, last featured for Harambee Stars in 2015 and was also part of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier team.

First Coach Stanley Okumbi also handed debut to Joe Waithera, a striker who turns out for National Super League side Wazito FC as he seeks to form a solid team that will represent the country at 2018 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) to be hosted in Kenya from January 11- February 2.

Other notable faces in the team are Vihiga United defender Benard Ochieng, Tusker FC forward Boniface Muchiri and Mathare United attacker Chris Ochieng.

Ulinzi’s left-back Omar Mbongi and Nakumatt FC striker Kepha Aswani make a  comeback to the team that will report camp on Sunday, August, 20 at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies thereafter leave for Mozambique on August 31.

-Squad-

Goalkeepers

Boniface Oluoch (Gor Mahia), Patrick Matasi (Posta Rangers)

Defenders

Benard Ochieng (Vihiga United), Harun Shakava (Gor Mahia), Musa Mohammed (Gor Mahia), Omar Mbongi (Ulinzi Stars), Simon Mbugua (Posta Rangers)

Midfielders

Ernest Wendo (Gor Mahia), Victor Majid (AFC Leopards), George Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Jackson Macharia (Tusker), Daniel Waweru (Ulinzi Stars)

Strikers

Samuel Onyango (Ulinzi Stars), Bonface Muchiri (Tusker), Kepha Aswani (Nakumatt), Masoud Juma (Kariobangi Sharks), Stephen Waruru (Ulinzi Stars), Joe Waithera (Wazito), Chris Ochieng (Mathare United)

The post Blackberry back as Okumbi summons team for Mozambique friendly appeared first on Capital Sports.

The Hong Kong rugby 15s team arriving at JKIA.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 18- Despite the desire to revenge last year’s defeat in Nairobi, Hong Kong intends to use the test match against Simbas slated for Sunday at the RFUEA Ground to scout and identify new talents.

Hong Kong comprises of a blend of youth and experience from a host of players drawn from overseas.

Hong Kong introduced a number of new faces to the team and retained some who can be identified as being the cornerstone of establishing Hong Kong’s enviable position in Asia at U20s.

“We’ve included a number of ERP players, both to give them another competitive opportunity and also to give us some spine and a base to work off of in Kenya. We’ve balanced that with a healthy number of new caps and returning junior players with a view to identify and develop some new talent,” Hong Kong head coach Leigh Jones said.

The Hong Kong Dragons are ranked 24th in the world and had a feeling of the pitch on Friday evening with aim to revenge last year’s 34-14 defeat they suffered in the hands of Kenya.

With the Asia Series starting early next month Players from the Hong Kong Sporting Institute were not selected for the Dragon’s trip to Kenya due to the commencement of the Asian Series early next month.

Kenya Simbas’ Kevin Masai in action against Hong Kong defence.Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA

Jones sees it as a blessing in disguise since he will miss some players but thinks the situation gives room for younger players

“It’s a critical phase for the sevens programme and their preparations have to take precedence, but that provides another opportunity for us to play some of the youngsters and further expand our base.”

The Dragons hope to sieve more players and retain talented players in Hong Kong with an impending ruling that concerns passport eligibility for rugby players.

The ruling in Asia will increase passport eligibility from three years to five years. This will give room for students in universities polish their talents while at the same time improve the quality of rugby in Hong Kong.

“This suggests that with the impending five year eligibility, we are potentially losing a crucial layer of feeder players into our national team. Moving forward, this will place an even greater emphasis on our development structures in finding and retaining more home-grown talent,” the Hong Kong head coach added.

The post Hong Kong Dragons eye Kenya Simbas revenge appeared first on Capital Sports.

Dafabet Kenya will award one lucky winner with a trip for two to go and watch Burnely face Arsenal on November 26 at at Tuff Moor Stadium.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 18 – One lucky winner holding a Dafabet Kenya account will be rewarded with a fully paid trip for two to watch the prestigious English Premier League match pitting Burnley and Arsenal at Tuff Moor Stadium, United Kingdom.

The lucky winner will also have an opportunity to carry along one partner for the life time experience in The United Kingdom for the match that will be played November 26.

The winner will be selected from a draw that one enters by depositing and betting on the Dafabet platform as frequently as possible in a promotion is dubbed “Twende Game” which runs till September 30.

“Kenyan football fans are in for a treat. This is just but the beginning of exciting times for local sports enthusiast,” Dafabet Kenya’s the Head of Business Development, Chris Harley, declared on Friday.

The announcement came on the back of Dafabet Kenya’s major enhancements on its products this week, the Price Boost and MoneyBack, with the start of European leagues.

“Europe’s top football leagues are back in action and what better way to get involved than with Dafabet Kenya price boosts,” Harley added.

“Our prices stand out of the crowd and fans can take advantage of not only weekly boosted odds on the Premier League, La Liga and other massive games but one can also take advantage of the fact that the they will be specially picked by our very own experts.”

Dafabet Kenya became the first Kenyan bookmaker to refund bets lost with their new MoneyBack feature.

“Moneyback offers can be considered as the punter’s paradise because one is free to bet without fearing the loss of money. This is one of the best offers in the Kenyan market, as you are requested to place a bet (in specific matches or events) and if you happen to lose, you will receive a full refund of your bet.”

The first event to get a MoneyBack was the Liverpool vs Watford game, where everyone who place a single bet on Liverpool to win had their stake refunded back into their bet accounts. “We felt that they lost unfairly, as the Watford goal was from an offside position.”

Benedict Ochieng’, a Liverpool fan was one of such punter.

“As a Liverpool fan we felt robbed but the MoneyBack feature gave me some level of consolation.” The El Classico midweek fixture also enjoyed the MoneyBack with all punters who bet on Barcelona to win having their stake returned as a free bet to their account.

-Dafabet Moneyback-

Dafabet Moneyback is where a punter fearing loss of money has a chance to receive a full refund bet for those who place single bets.

Dafabet Kenya offered Moneyback to punters in Liverpool’s 3-3 draw away at Watford with the Hornets’ last gasp equalizer appearing scored from offside position

El Classico midweek fixture also enjoyed the MoneyBack with all punters who bet on Barcelona to win having their stake returned as a free bet to their account.

The post Dafabet to award lucky Kenyans to watch Burnley play Arsenal appeared first on Capital Sports.

National Olympic Committee of Kenya chairman Dr Kipchoge Keino.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 18 – The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has convened an Extraordinary General Assembly on September 5 to plan for the impending forthcoming elections of the sports umbrella body.

The NOCK National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting chaired by the legendary Hezekiah Kipchoge Keino convened for the extraordinary meeting to chat for the way forward for the much anticipated long overdue elections.

The Extraordinary meeting to be attended by all the NOCK affiliated federations will set the dates for the elections and as well come up with procedures and modalities of the polls.

The NOCK executive committee was convened to prepare for the polls after the Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF) that had stopped the polls scheduled for May 5, through a court injunction withdrew the case from the High Court to pave way for the elections.

Briefing the press after the NEC meeting, NOCK General Secretary F.K Paul said election procedures and dates will be passed to the Centre for MultiParty Democracy (CMD) the electoral body tasked with overseeing NOCK’s polls for implementation.

Paul said they asked the Sports Tribunal to speed up the cases involving some NOCK affiliated federations before the polls so that they can be allowed to exercise their democratic rights.

“The issue of the six federations which have been locked out from the polls will also be discussed during the meeting for respite,” he said.

The affected federations are the Kenya Swimming Federation (KSF), Kenya Amateur Cycling Association (KACA), Kenya Badminton Federation (KBF), Kenya Weightlifting Federation (KWF), Kenya Rowing and Canoeing Association (KRCA) and Kenya Taekwondo Federation (KTF).

The elections were suspended on the morning of May 5th, when they were supposed to take place after the Taekwondo Federation, whose officials were prevented from standing as candidates or voting, obtained a court order.

Five times World Cross Country champion, Paul Tergat was set to be elected unopposed as the new head of the troubled National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) after incumbent Kipchoge Keino, who has been in charge for nearly 20 years, failed to secure a nomination.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has issued NOCK with an ultimatum of holding the elections by the end of September or risk facing sanctions.

The post NOCK convenes Extraordinary Meeting to plan for elections appeared first on Capital Sports.

StarTimes Vice President Mr. Mark Lisboa (Left) Marion Wangari Edward Wesonga – Corporate Sales Manager (Right).

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 18 – StarTimes Media on Friday unveiled the most comprehensive live football offering composed of major international tournaments and top tier European soccer leagues in the pay television industry in Kenya.

The company has secured the pay television transmission rights for exploitation in Kenya and other territories across sub-Saharan Africa.

The development will see Kenyan sports lovers enjoy access to a comprehensive football offering detailing more than eight tournaments and European top flight leagues between now and 15th July 2018.

Speaking during the unveil ceremony, StarTimes Vice President Mr. Mark Lisboa noted that the company has since achieved an enviable milestone by extending a rich menu of football offering that will be exclusively broadcasted on StarTimes effective tonight. By so doing, Kenyan households will enjoy access to the content through the company’s affordable pay television platform.

“We are delighted to authoritatively state that StarTimes has the most comprehensive live football offering composed of major international tournaments and top tier European soccer leagues than any other pay television provider in Kenya,” noted Mr. Lisboa.

The said tournaments and top tier leagues include:

The German Bundesliga 2017/18 season – From 18th August – (36) -324 Matches

Italian Serie A 2017/18 season – From 20th August – (38) -380 Matches

French Ligue 1 – Already started – (38) – 380 Matches

European Qualifiers – From August 31st 2017 (72 Matches Remaining)

FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 (6th October 2017 – 28th October 2017) – 52 Matches

2018 FIFA World Cup (16th June 2018 – 15th July 2018) – 64 Matches

FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2018  – 32 Matches

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2018   – 32 Matches

“From the eight tournaments and top tier European leagues, StarTimes will broadcast up to 1,336 LIVE soccer matches, Kenyan subscribers can therefore look forward to these and more which will be accessible on our sports channels,” added Mr. Lisboa.

StarTimes has dedicated five sports channels that will broadcast the respective tournaments including two High Definition channels namely Sports Premium and World Premium as well as Sports Arena, Sports life and Sports focus enabling the company to air multiple live matches at the same time.

The acquisition of these broadcast rights is a culmination of the company’s progressive efforts to grow premium sports offering in the Kenyan market while driving access to the prestigious sporting events through affordable pay television offering.

StarTimes subscribers will be in a position to enjoy these prestigious tournaments and top tier leagues from as little as Ksh 599 per month where subscribing to either basic bouquet, Classic or Unique bouquet that are retailing at Ksh 599, 999 and 1,499 respectively, subscribers will get to access the comprehensive sporting action.

The same will be available from as little as Ksh 899 on Smart bouquet and Ksh 1,499 for Super bouquet on the satellite television platform.

The post StarTimes unveils rich football broadcast schedule appeared first on Capital Sports.

Kariobangi Sharks forward Masoud Juma against Edoret Youth’s Philex Kwemoi. Photo/RAYMOND MAKHAYA

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 19 – Kenyan Premier League side Kariobangi Sharks sailed through to the semi-finals of the GOtv Shield after walloping Division One side Eldoret Youth 5-0 in the quartets played at the Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday.

Masoud Juma found the back of the net twice as Duke Abuya, Ebrimah Sanneh and Sven Yiddah netted a goal apiece to round up the rout.

-developing-

The post Sharks hit five past Eldoret Youth to storm GOtv Shield semis appeared first on Capital Sports.

Gor Mahia Meddie Kagere celebrates with Timothy Otieno.PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 19 – Giants Gor Mahia opened a six-point lead at the summit of the Kenyan Premier League table after registering a 2-1 win over Muhoroni Youth at the Moi Stadium in Kisumu on Saturday.

Timothy Otieno nodded a brace as Robert Indimuli scored the consolation from a counter attack connecting an Ambrose Ayoyi cross.

In other results, Mathare United humiliated Zoo Kericho 6-0 while Sofapaka were 5-2 winners over Nakumatt FC, Thika United beat Nzoia United 1-0 while Posta Rangers were held by Chemelil Sugar to a 1-1 draw in Awasi.

At the Kisumu stadium, Gor extended their dominance over Muhoroni with Timothy Otieno producing a man of the match performance to see the record 15- KPL champions control the standings with 40 points, six ahead of second placed Sofapaka.

Otieno threatened at the quarter hour mark when he connected well with a Francis Kahata cross but his effort was thwarted after colliding with Muhoroni keeper Gradus Ocheing to force the match temporarily stopped in the 20th minute.

However, Otieno made impact immediately after resumption when he connected a Jaques Tuyisenge cross to break the deadlock in the 22nd minute.

Otieno was at it again moments later, completing a brace when he beat Muhoroni custodian on a one-on-one.

Muhoroni found their footing in the second half with the introduction of Daniel Omondi but Gor remained solid as Boniface Omondi nearly extended K’Ogalo’s lead after hitting the side net from a Karim Nzigimana cross.

On fire Gor were denied by the cross bar in the 71st minute through Rwandese forward Tuyisenge before he was substituted for talisman Meddie Kagere.

On the other hand, Muhoroni introduced the attacking duo of Francis Oduor and Venval Thomas, seeking to come back in the game and their efforts started to bear fruits after Indimuli pulled one goal back.

However, it was too late as Gor held on the lead to collect maximum points.

The post Gor down Muho to open six-point KPL lead appeared first on Capital Sports.

Charles Okwemba celebrates with teammates after scoring one of the two Vihiga United goals in a GOtv Shield Quarter final clash against defending champions Tusker FC on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 20- Veteran Charles Okwemba struck a first half penalty and Dennis Lugalia scored late on as National Super League (NSL) leaders Vihiga United stunned defending champions Tusker FC 2-0 to book a slot in the semi-final of the GOtv Shield.

Tusker were shockingly lethargic in their approach and did not show any hunger of either winning the game or retaining the title they won for the first time in 23 years last year.

“I am really disappointed today because I can’t even understand why we played this badly. We had possession but possession without purpose. It is a sad moment for us because this is a cup we really wanted to retain,” a dejected Tusker head coach George Nsimbe said after the match.

His opposite number Edward Manoah was elated with the result, guiding the NSL side to their first ever domestic cup semi-final.

“We stuck to our strategy and that is what paid off. We play well with speed on the wings and our break out strategy was brilliantly executed. It is a calming result for the boys especially with the uncertainty around our sponsorship,” the former Chemelil Sugar boss told Capital Sport.

Vihiga, though not entirely dominant over the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) champions stuck to their strategy; defend well, find spaces and create chances. Though their head coach Manoah was sent to the stands with 15 minutes left, they still remained tucked to their style to see off the win.

Vihiga United’s Charles Okwemba dribbles past Tusker FC’s Boniface Muchiri during a GOtv Shield quarter final match at the Nyayo National Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Okwemba who has over two decades of experience playing in the Kenyan top flight was hugely influential for the NSL side, pulling strings in midfield and spraying passes well upfront.

Tusker’s Humphrey Mieno was hugely subdued and his body language spoke volumes of a team that clearly wasn’t in the best of shapes to win the match.

The holders dominated possession in the opening minutes of the game, but failed to get even a single shot on target to make their dominance count.

The visitors grew into the game with Tusker not taking their approach seriously and they had their first chance in the 17^th minute when Dennis Wafula forced a save off Duncan Ochieng at the far post when he raced to connect to a cross from the right.

Their pressure paid off in the 24^th minute when Okwemba scored from the spot after Marlon Tangauzi handled the ball inside the box in an attempt to defend from a corner.

Three minutes on the turn, the brewers had a chance to draw back level but Danson Kago, not in his best element wasted a glorious chance. Boniface Muchiri cut back the ball to him well placed the edge of the six yard box, but the winger blasted the ball over.

Vihiga managed to sustain the Tusker surge upfront and they kept their back four intact, not even their two fullbacks getting into any forays upfront. Tusker on their side were careless with possession and lost balls cheaply.

Vihiga United’s Edwin Mukoya tightly marks Tusker FC’s Boniface Muchiri during a GOtv Shield quarter final match at the Nyayo National Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The defending champions were forced to change personnel with midfielder Cersidy Okeyo being forced out with a back injury and his place taken by Jackson Macharia.

In the second half Okwemba almost doubled his tally with a well taken volley from the edge of the box but it went inches wide after Godfrey Airo had chested down a cross or him. On the other end, Muchiri had an effort from a freekick deflect off the wall and out for a corner.

Vihiga kept their defensive shape with 15 minutes left on the clock, safeguarding their lone goal advantage.

With Tusker not showing any urge to score, it was the visitors who would get the last laugh, Lugalia nodding the ball home from close range after some suspect Tusker defending from a corner.

The post Vihiga stun holders Tusker out of GOtv Shield appeared first on Capital Sports.

Alexis Kitenge, Marcelus Ingotsi and Mike Kibwage celebrate one of the AFC Leopards goals during their GOtv Shield quarter final match against Wazito FC at Nyayo Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 20-  Burundian forward Alexis Kitenge’s hatrick of penalties and Marcelus ‘Adebayor’ Ingotsi’s brace helped AFC Leopards to a healthy 7-1 win over National Super League (NSL) side Wazito FC as they progressed to the semi-finals of the GOtv Shield.

The 2013 champions showed intent of going all the way to bag the title with an emphatic start, two penalties within three minutes giving them a foothold of the game with Wazito yet to get their feet on the ground.

Wazito goalkeeper Stephen Njung’e had a nightmare of a game, giving out the first penalty and then adding insult to injury punching Mike Kibwage’s cross from the right into his own net and letting the ball slide under his arm for Ingwe’s sixth in the second half.

Ingwe got into the lead in the sixth minute when Njung’e brought down Harun Nyakha inside the box when he went all out to pick the ball off his feet and Kitenge did not disappoint from the spot hitting the ball low and hard.

Three minutes later, Wazito conceded a penalty, this time Dennis Gicheru handling the ball inside the box as his clearing header from an Aziz Okaka cross ricocheted off his team mate and back to his arm. Kitenge once again stepped up making no mistake to double the lead.

Wazito had taken time to get into the game and the two quick goals shook them off balance. They struggled to get their act back together and when they finally did as the half wore on, got chances to score.

AFC Leopards midfielder Duncan Otieno tackles Wazito’s Antony Gathu during their GOtv Shield quarter final match against Wazito FC at Nyayo Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

In the 33^rd minute, former Sofapaka ace Bob Mugalia had a free header inside the box from a Joakim Omolo cross go wide while two minutes later, former Tusker and KCB defender Mark Odhiambo’s effort from a freekick went inches over.

Kibwage almost scored into his own net in the 37^th minute with his attempt to clear the ball off an Omolo cross. From the second corner, Gicheru’s free header went wide.

All through, AFC remained comfortable retaining their shape with Dennis Sikhayi doing very well in his adopted left back role.

They should have gone three up in the 42^nd minute but Okaka’s attempt at chipping the ball over the keeper from a sleek Duncan Otieno through pass was finger-tipped over by the Wazito keeper.

In the second half, Wazito head coach Frank Ouna made a double swoop, pulling out Mugalia and Antony Gathu for Patient Lukige and Johnston Omurwa. AFC responded by bringing in Andrew Tololwa for Nyakha.

Omurwa almost made an immediate impact in the game when he broke away on the right but his rifling shot at the edge of the box came off the side netting.

AFC Leopards midfielder Harun Nyakha vies for the ball with Wazito’s Antony Gathu during their GOtv Shield quarter final match against Wazito FC at Nyayo Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Wazito’s positive start to the second half was undone in an instant in the 49^th minute when poor goalkeeping from Njung’e saw his punch the ball into his own net after Kibwage had broken through from the right outmuscling Gicheru.

The NSL side however had some slight hope of a comeback in the 55^th minute when Gicheru scored from a penalty after Sikhayi brought down Piston Mutamba inside the box from a swiftly executed counter attack.

It turned out to be a frantic resumption of the game with Okaka almost getting his name on the scoresheet three minutes later but his shot after going past keeper Njung’e from a counter came off the upright.

On the other end four minutes later, Wazito had a brilliant chance to halve the deficit but Omurwa’s low shot from a cutback by Mutamba was well saved by Andika.

AFC were in no panic mode and with ease stretched their lead to five. Ingotsi headed them further ahead unmarked at the far post from a Samuel Ndung’u cross.

Ndung’u also got his name on the score sheet with 10 minutes to go with a low shot that slipped under the keeper’s arms from the edge of the box.

Kitenge put the icing on the cake with a late penalty after Dickson Ihaji handled a cross from Robinson Kamura.

The post Ingwe claw Wazito to book Shield semi slot appeared first on Capital Sports.

The Kenya Simbas in a past match. Photo/KRU

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 20 – Dennis Muhanji saved Kenya Simbas the blushes as the national 15s team was held to a 19-19 draw at home by visitors Hong Kong in one of the two international test matches played at the RFUEA Ground on Sunday.

Kenya, who were trailing a well oiled Hong Kong side 14-12 at half time, grounded three tries through captain of the day George Nyambua, Alex Olaba and Muhanji to leave the technical bench with a lot of work to do ahead of the second test match on Saturday next week at the same venue.

In the opening half dominated by Hong Kong, Kenya suffered a major blow when Nondescripts fly half Biko Adema limped off injured only three minutes after kick-off to be replaced by KCB’s Kenny Andola.

Kenya Simbas assistant coach Dominique Habimana admitted they have a lot of work to do ahead of the second test match, but heaped praise on the young side that saw most of the players make their full international test debut.

“We ended up with a draw, we would have liked to put an extra point for the win but we are contented with the result. We opted to give players who have had less play time a chance to showcase themselves and I am happy the young boys tried,” Habimana said after the match.

“The young boys had a stage fright but they have shown they can play rugby when they are settled. They just need to increase the composure and they will be fine. The forwards need a lot of work to do to get that extra half foot when the scrum is set. But they will get there we are going to work on getting the front foot,” the assistant coach added.

Hong Kong skipper Jack Parfitt was disappointed with the result but vowed to comeback stronger on Saturday next week when the last test match will take place at the same venue.

“We could have won this game but we switched off towards the end of the first half, and at some point in the second half. It’s not a result that we wanted but we are happy the way we played bearing in mind Kenya is at home and have a strong team.”

“We should keep up and the win will come on our way, we are disappointed we did not win the game. We will approach the second game the same way… start on a high and be dangerous in the opening half,” the captain added.

The visitors, who pinned Kenya on their half, saw their pressure bear fruits when Jack Parfitt dotted down a converted try to open the scoring in the eight minute.

With Kenya committing school boy errors, Hong Kong punished them, doubling the scores when Liam Slatem went over with a brilliant try that was converted to give his side a 14-0 lead.

Kenya pulled one back from a push try in the 22nd minute  from Nyambua who was the only one in the squad from the team that played in the Gold Cup campaign away to Zimbabwe and Namibia.

A speedy Hong Kong side was very accurate in their swing passed forcing Patrice Agunda to be send to the sin bin for a high tackle, leaving Kenya one man down.

However, playing in his international full debut, youngster Olaba burst from the left to touch the whitewash on the stroke of half time but Andola missed the conversation to see Kenya lag two points behind at the breather.

Hong Kong started on a high, extending the lead from the left flank nine minutes in the second half thanks to a Slatem converted try that saw him complete a brace for a 19-12 scoreline.

Even with the introduction of experienced Samson Onsomu for Lyle Asiligwa, Kenya could not match Hong Kong’s performance, squandering a penalty that could have levelled matters.

Muhanji saved Kenya the blushes when he went over in the 65th minute for Andola to successfully convert.

The post Scrappy Simbas caged by Hong Kong Dragons appeared first on Capital Sports.

Hellen Obiri strides to win the Rome Diamond League and set a national 5,000m record on June 8, 2017. PHOTO/IAAF

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 20 – Fresh from winning the women’s 5000m world title at the London IAAF World Championships, Hellen Obiri failed to carry on the superb form at the IAAF Birmingham Diamond League where she finished fourth in the 3000m.

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands won the race in a National and Meeting record of 8:28.90 to make amends against Obiri who condemned her to bronze at the London IAAF World Championships a week ago at the Olympic Stadium.

Obiri followed the pacemaker during the early stages and then found herself at the front of a sizeable pack, passing 2000 metres in 5:41.83.

But as the race approached the closing stages, the Kenyan appeared to be running on tired legs –understandable for someone who is approaching the end of a year in which she has had busy cross-country, indoor and outdoor campaigns.

Obiri tried to kick with 200 metres left, but her pursuers were poised behind her. Germany’s Konstanze Klosterhalfen had worked her way through the field and moved on to Obiri’s shoulder, but it was world indoor 1500m champion Hassan who had the best finish, kicking on to win in a Dutch record.

Klosterhalfen finished second in 8:29.89, becoming the seventh member of an exclusive club of women to have run faster than two minutes for 800m, four minutes for 1500m, 8:30 for 3000m and 15 minutes for 5000m.

“It has been three years since I last ran a 3000m (outdoors) so I enjoyed the opportunity to run the distance here,” said Hassan, the world 5000m bronze medallist. “It went out fast but then I felt a bit tired, so winning surprised me. I had to work hard but that is a great result coming off the back of a World Championships.”

Obiri eventually finished fourth in 8:30.21, 0.10 behind compatriot Margaret Chelimo. Britain’s Eilish McColgan set a PB of 8:31.00 in fifth, while world steeplechase champion Emma Coburn was 11th in a PB of 8:48.60.

-Women’s 1500m-

Winny Chebet was Kenya’s best performer after finishing second in the women’s1500m behind Ethiopia’s Seyum Dawit.

Dawit hadn’t raced since the IAAF Diamond League meeting in Shanghai back in May, missing the World Championships in the process. With a convincing victory in Birmingham, the world indoor silver medallist showed she could have been a factor in London.

She, along with the rest of the field, trailed compatriot Gudaf Tsegay for the first three laps. Tsegay, the only athlete to go with the pacemaker, had her 15-metre lead reduced on the last lap and was eventually caught by Seyaum with 200 metres to go.

Seyaum went on to win in 4:01.36 with Chebet coming through for second place in 4:02.24. Tsegay wound up fourth in 4:03.00 while world silver medallist Jenny Simpson was seventh in 4:03.71.

-Kiprop beaten again-

In the men’s 800m, Asbel Kiprop finished seventh in the 800m men’s race to continue his woes after failing to defend his 1500m title at London World Championships.

Botswana’s Nijel Amos made amends for his fifth-place finish in London, winning the 800m in 1:44.50. The 2012 Olympic silver medallist finished comfortably ahead of world silver medallist Adam Kszczot and his compatriot 1:45.33, the fast-finishing Poles clocking 1:45.28 and 1:45.33 respectively.

The post Obiri beaten as Hassan breaks meeting record in Birmingham appeared first on Capital Sports.

CAF vice president COnstant Omari (R) with Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario after briefing the press at the end of CAF’s five day inspection tour on June 17 ahead of CHAN 2018. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 21- The Confederation of African Football (CAF) inspection team will jet into the country on September 7 and not August 28 as earlier planned to assess the progress of preparations towards next year’s African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The CAF delegation had announced during their last visit in June that they would be coming back for a make-or-break final inspection tour at the end of August, but Local Organising Committee (LOC) Deputy Chief Executive Officer Herbart Mwachiro says the dates have changed.

There have been fears that Kenya would be stripped of the hosting rights for the biennial championship specially made up for local based players with the speed of progress in rehabilitating the proposed venues taking a snail’s pace.

“Hosting rights for CHAN remain with Kenya until CAF officially say otherwise. There has been a widespread belief that we will not host but I am confident that we can be ready in time,” Mwachiro told Capital Sport.

He says work on the venues has taken higher gear after the General Election and Nyayo National Stadium has already been closed down for renovations with Kenyan Premier League matches moved to Kasarani.

“The contractor at Nyayo has already started work and all the other venues have work going on from a while back. The difference now is that things are moving on a bit faster especially after the elections. By the time CAF IS coming in September, everything will be on course,” Mwachiro further commented.

The Nyayo National Stadium will be closed for renovation. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

The current fears evoke memories of 1996 when Kenya was set to host the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) but pulled out with the tourney heading to South Africa.

Already, word is that CAF has signalled South Africa and Morocco as potential replacements if Kenya fails.

Football Kenya Federation boss Nick Mwendwa speaking to Capital Sport in a past interview said he was confident that Kenya would host the championship but called for better involvement from the government.

But Mwachiro has said the government has already disbursed funds and it is now a task of racing against time.

“Government has released the money and now it is up to us to work round the clock. It is a challenge but we can overcome,” he noted.

Only the Kasarani Stadium ticked most of the right boxes during the previous inspection tour with the Kinoru Stadium in Meru also getting thumbs up. Kipchoge Keino in Eldoret, Kenyatta in Machakos and Nyayo in Nairobi left question marks.

The CAF team was impressed with the transport and hotel infrastructure as well as some of the training grounds but the biggest headache remained the stadia.

Four stadia are required to host the championship. Each must have at least four changing rooms, a well mapped out media tribune, television quality floodlights, standby generators, separate referees, anti-doping and event management offices as well as perfect internet connectivity.

Representatives from CAF take a group photo with Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario and FKF boss Nick Mwendwa at the end of CAF’s five day inspection tour on June 17 ahead of CHAN 2018. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

Kenya has a lot of work to convince the continental body that it will indeed be ready in January with most of the facilities lacking the prerequisite requirements.

During the June visit, the CAF team held meetings with government officials led by Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario, all who gave assurances that the government is committed to host the championship.

Kenya successfully hosted the IAAF World Under-18 Championship and FKF and its organising committee is now under pressure to ensure that football does not let the country down.

Qualification for the championship is set to wind down on Tuesday.

Fourteen teams have already qualified with only one slot remaining. It will be determined on Tuesday when Senegal travels away to Guinea with a 3-1 lead from the first leg.

The qualification campaign has already claimed big casualties including defending champions DR Congo, South Africa and Ghana.

The post CAF team now set to inspect Kenya for CHAN in September appeared first on Capital Sports.

New Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui being sworn in at the Nakuru ASK ShowGround on August 21, 2017. PHOTO/Wanjiru Macharia

NAKURU, Kenya, Aug 21- Newly elected Nakuru County Governor Lee Kinyanjui has said his government will establish a fully equipped training camp for athletes and other sports in the county as part of his promise to improve sports in the talent-rich region.

Speaking during his inauguration at the Nakuru ASK grounds on Monday, the Governor said his administration will engage stakeholders in the sports fraternity to improve sport tourism.

Keringet area of Kuresoi South sub-county, Kinyanjui noted, had demonstrated a high potential of producing world class athletics champions and putting up a training facility in the area would further open up the region for more talent.

The Governor noted that two out of the five gold medals won in the just concluded IAAF World Championships in London were scooped by athletes from Kuresoi. They included Faith Kipyegon’s in 1500 metres and Geoffrey Kirui’s in Men’s Marathon.

According to the governor, the training camp would encourage young athletes in the region while at the same time tapping revenue through sport tourism.

Several camps have been set up in the talent-rich North rift region in the counties of Nandi and Uasin Gishu, but none has been set up in the central rift, this poised to be the first.

-By Wanjiru Macharia-

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Vihiga United head coach Edward manoah during a past match. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 21 – National Super League side Vihiga United would rather concentrate on earning promotion to the Kenyan Premier League than put all their efforts towards hunting for GOtv Shield honours, head coach Edward Manoah has hinted.

Vihiga cruised to the semi-finals of the Shield with a shocking 2-0 win over defending champions Tusker FC, but though Manoah says they will strive to strike a balance between the two competitions, earning promotion tops his agenda.

“We don’t want to lose focus. We now want to find a way where we can be able to balance between the two; league and GOtv Shield. That is one area we need to be very careful of because we might end up messing ourselves,” Manoah told Capital Sport.

He adds; “If it were me, the NSL is of more importance. We missed last year by a whisker and this time we cannot afford to miss. We should not make a mistake of losing focus.”

The former Chemelil Sugar head coach has asked for commitment from his players, noting they have a good shot of playing Premier League football for the first time in their history.

Vihiga leads the National Super League table with 40 points after 20 matches, keeping a four-point buffer between them and second placed Nairobi Stima.

“It is not a big gap and we need to be very careful with our remaining games. The Super League is very competitive,” the tactician added.

Meanwhile Manoah hopes the new Vihiga County Government will continue supporting the team despite a change in leadership that saw incumbent Moses Akaranga replaced by former Emuhaya MP Wilber Otichillo.

Vihiga United midfielder Charles Okwemba vies for the ball with Tusker FC’s Boniface Muchiri during a GOtv Shield quarter final clash at the Nyayo Stadium on August 20, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

The tactician admitted they faced a tough build-up to their GOtv Shield match against Tusker due to the change of guard, but the win calmed their nerves even as they lay hope that Otichillo and his team will not drop them off the huge plate of county government funds.

Akaranga had invested hugely in the team, sponsoring them to a tune of almost Sh40mn a season and had also bought them a team bus.

“The outgoing governor was very passionate and committed to engaging the youth through football. We are heartbroken with the changes; we are nervous because we don’t know whether the incoming executive will still support us. If not, then we will have lost four years of hard work,” the tactician narrated.

He however hopes the fact that they are on the verge of KPL promotion and have secured a GOtv Shield semis slot for the first time in their history will convince the new county bosses to ensure the flow of finances does not dry up.

“The win against Tusker was very important for the players especially because it will stabilize their minds, motivate them and as we shift focus back to the league, we will be calmer and less stressed,” the tactician admitted.

Vihiga will shift their attention to their league tie against St Joseph Youth in Mumias on Sunday afternoon.

The post Promotion hunt supersedes Shield honours, say Vihiga appeared first on Capital Sports.

Harambee Stars skipper Victor Wanyama takes a water break as he listens to assistant coach Musa Otieno during a friendly match against DR Congo on march 26, 2017 in Machakos. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 22- Harambee Stars skipper Victor Wanyama, goalkeeper Arnold Origi and midfielder Johannah Omollo will not be included in Kenya’s friendly match against Mozambique set for September 2 in Maputo.

According to Football Kenya Federation Chief Executive Officer Robert Muthomi, Wanyama and Omollo have been omitted upon their request while goalkeeper Origi might not be available due to paperwork.

“Wanyama asked to be excused from this game because he is just returning to the team after injury and is struggling to get into form. Omollo told us that he just joined a new team and would like some time to settle down,” Muthomi told Capital Sport.

“For Origi, it is a bit complicated because of passport issues. He has a Norwegian passport and they don’t allow dual citizenship there so it is virtually difficult for us to have him,” added Muthomi.

The shot-stopper last played for Harambee Stars in March last year during the 1-0 home loss to Guinea Bissau in the botched African Cup of Nations qualification campaign.

He has been overlooked since then but was conspicuously named when the coaching team rolled out their preliminary squad.

Goalkeeper Arnold Origi during warm up in a past Harambee Stars match. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

At the same time, left back Erick ‘Marcelo’ Ouma based in Georgia is conspicuously missing from the squad that is expected to gather up in camp next week.

The team includes a call up for Ireland-based Jonah Ayunga while there is a return for Clifton Miheso and John Mark Makwatta who turn out for Buildcon FC in the Zambian Premier League.

The Harambee Stars team will be split into two.

A reserve side headed by assistant coach Musa Otieno will travel to a training Camp in Morocco from August 29 to September 5 and play two friendly matches against the hosts and Mauritania.

The main team will travel to Mozambique for the September 2 friendly and will be headed by first coach Stanley Okumbi.

“The Morocco camp will be very instrumental for the CHAN team because they will have a chance to work into getting themselves up for the final team. It will also give the coaches a good platform to test the players at a high level,” Muthomi further said.

Meanwhile, Ulinzi Stars players have pulled out of the team as they will be away in Burundi for the East Africa Military Games. Consequently, the coaches have called up players to replace them.

Kenneth Muguna and teammate Ernest Wendo close down on Everton FC forward Wayne Rooney during a friendly match in Tanzania in July 2017

Reigning Kenyan Premier League midfielder of the year Kenneth Muguna who had previously been omitted has been called up as well as teammate Peter Odhiambo who has displaced keeper Boniface Oluoch in the K’Ogalo starting team.

Posta Rangers reserve keeper Faruk Shikhalo and AFC leopards’ Gabriel Andika have also been called up alongside teammates Marcelus Ingotsi, Robinson Kamura and Dennis Sikhayi.

Kariobangi Sharks defender Pascal Ogweno who is serving a six match ban in the KPL due to indiscipline has also been handed a call up alongside teammate Patillah Omotto. Nakuru All Stars midfielder Peter Ng’ang’a has also been handed a maiden call up into the team.

The squad is expected to report to camp after next week’s midweek matches.

Foreign based players for Mozambique friendly

Harambee Stars skipper Victor Wanyama (Centre) with team mates David ‘Cheche’ Ochieng (left) and Paul Were (right) during training at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on March 22, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

David Ochieng’ (New York Cosmos, USA), Abud Omar (Slavia Sofia, Bulgaria), Anthony Akumu, Jesse Were and David Owino (Zesco United, Zambia), Cliff Miheso and John Makwatta (Buildcon FC, Zambia), Michael Olunga (Guizhou Zhicheng, China), Eric Johanna (Vasalund IF, Sweden), Jonah Ayunga (Galway United, Ireland), Ayub Timbe (Beijing Renhe, China), Brian Mandela (Maritzburg United, South Africa).

Local based players:

Goalkeepers

Boniface Oluoch, Peter Odhiambo (Gor Mahia) and Patrick Matasi, Faruk Shikhalo (Posta Rangers), Gabriel Andika (AFC Leopards).

Defenders

Simon Mbugua, Jockins Atudo (Posta Rangers), Musa Mohammed, Harun Shakava (Gor Mahia), Bernard Ochieng’ (Vihiga United), Robinson Kamura, Dennis Sikhayi (AFC Leopards), Collins Shivachi, Wesley Onguso (Sofapaka), Pascal Ogweno (Kariobangi Sharks), Joseph Okumu (Unattached),

Midfielders

Kenneth Muguna, Ernest Wendo, George Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Duncan Otieno, Victor Majid (AFC Leopards), George Odhiambo (Gor Mahia), Jackson Macharia (Tusker), Peter Ng’ang’a (Nakuru All Stars), Patillah Omotto (Kariobangi Sharks), Alpha Onyango (Kakamega High School).

Strikers

Kepha Aswani (Nakumatt), Masoud Juma (Kariobangi Sharks), Joe Waithera (Wazito), Chris Ochieng’ (Mathare United), Boniface Muchiri (Tusker FC), Boniface Omondi (Gor Mahia), Moses Mudavadi, James Mazembe (Kakamega Homeboyz), Ezekiel Otuoma (Western Stima), Nicholas Kipkurui (Zoo Kericho), Marcelus Ingotsi (AFC Leopards).

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Thirsty for the title: Posta Rangers head coach Sammy Omollo has warned that his team is a strong title contender.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 22 – Posta Rangers head coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo wants his side to bag all three points and ensure the gap between them and the top does not grow when they face leaders Gor Mahia on Wednesday afternoon at the Kasarani Stadium.

The two sides played to a 1-1 draw in the first leg at Nyayo Stadium, but Omollo now wants his boys to go one better and win against the record 15-time champions especially after running dry in their last two games.

“We do not want them to open a big gap at the top and looking at how we performed in the first leg, I think we can improve and win to narrow the difference in points between us,” Omollo told Capital Sport ahead of the fixture.

The mailmen looked solid in the first leg where they lost only one match, but have drastically slowed down in the second leg.

Omollo who featured for K’Ogalo during his prime playing days in the 90s wants his men to show their grit and determination to win their first ever title against a tough Gor side whose coach Dylan Kerr has not lost a single match since joining the team.

Posta will miss the services of two players.  Defender Simon Mbugua is ruled out of the tie with illness while Charles Odette’s eagerly anticipated comeback has been put on hold again after failing to attain the required fitness levels.

The former Sony Sugar defender has not featured for Posta this season having picked up a serious knee injury at the close of last season.

Posta Rangers goal keeper Patrick Matasi pounces on the ball ahead of Gor Mahia’s Timothy Otieno during the first leg match of the 2017 season. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya.

Posta come into the fixture on the backdrop of picking up only a point in their last two matches, losing to Nzoia Sugar away in Bungoma on August 6 before drawing 1-1 away to Chemelil Sugar a week later.

Omollo hopes for a different approach when they face Gor and he admits it will not be a walk in the park for them.

“I don’t think the Nzoia game will have an effect on how we play against Gor Mahia. We know in the back of our minds Gor are doing well but with the hard work we have done we will get something,” Omollo further beamed.

The mailmen are placed third in the standings with 34 points, six behind leaders Gor. A win will scale them up to within three points of the top, something that hugely dominates Omollo’s agenda.

Posta has beaten Gor only once over their last three league meetings, a 3-0 win in 2011 in a game that failed to end due to crowd trouble. Over the last three games, the two sides have played to draws.

The post Pamzo eyes Gor scalp as Posta seek bounce appeared first on Capital Sports.

Ulinzi Stars players celebrate one of their goals during the 5-1 win over Mathare United in a Kenyan Premier League match on April 23, 2017. PHOTO/Timothy Olobulu

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 22 – After a run of three consecutive losses, Ulinzi Stars finally bounced back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Chemelil Sugar at the Afraha Stadium on Tuesday, giving them a perfect send off as they leave for the East Africa Military Games on Thursday.

Daniel Waweru converted a 16th minute penalty after a handball inside the box to give the soldiers a huge sigh of relief, a result that hoisted them to fourth spot on the Kenyan Premier League table.

“It is such a huge relief for us because our confidence had been greatly eroded after the three consecutive losses. At least, we can now get our focus straight after the victory and though it was not the most efficient of wins, it is going to give us a lot of morale,” Nyangweso told Capital Sport.

The military side travel to Bujumbura, Burundi where they will represent the Kenya Defence Forces in the annual EAC Military Festival, heading in as the defending champions.

The timely break, Nyangweso says will give them time to re-focus their energies and come back for their league campaign with renewed vigour.

“It is great for us to go to Burundi after winning and our target is to defend our title. If we do so, we will come back with even more confidence to continue with our fight for the KPL title,” the tactician said.

Meanwhile, more matches will be played on Wednesday as KPL clubs grapple with a tightened fixture to make up for the two match-days lost due to the break occasioned by the General Election. Seven matches will be on cards across different venues.

Sofapaka head coach Sam Ssimbwa shouts out instructions to his players during a Kenyan Premier League match against Nakumatt FC at the Ruaraka Complex on July 1, 2017. PHOTO/Raymond Makhaya

Second placed Sofapaka host Nzoia Sugar at the Kasarani Stadium, beaming with confidence they can keep up with their perfect run that has seen them win three games on the trot.

They are only four points off leaders Gor Mahia who play Posta Rangers in the late kick off and a win coupled by a drop of points from K’Ogalo will see them close the gap.

“Nzoia is a very good team with young and speedy players. It is not a team we can afford to underrate. They have been on a good run as well and we should be able to keep up with our hard work which has been giving in good results,” Sofapaka assistant coach John Baraza said.

Nzoia who are seventh on the log come into the fixture off a 1-0 loss away to Thika United, a result that deflated their positive run of three successive wins.

Meanwhile, Kariobangi Sharks will be at home at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos taking on a rejuvenated Western Stima. Sharks have not won over their last four games, picking two consecutive losses over their last two assignments.

Kariobangi Sharks players celebrate one of their two goals against Sony Sugar in a Kenyan Premier League match at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on May 5, 2017. PHOTO/Courtesy

However, the Premier League newbie’s will rely on the motivation from their 5-0 thrashing of Eldoret Youth in the GOtv Shield over the weekend.

“Though it was against a lower tier team, the motivation we got there was massive. It has given us a good push and the players are determined to get back to winning ways. Stima is a good side because they have registered good results against top teams. It will not be easy,” Sharks boss William Muluya noted.

Stima are placed 17th on the log with only three points off bottom placed Muhoroni Youth and are hungry for three points. The first leg between the two sides ended 1-1, but Henry Omino’s powermen have vowed to get all three this time round.

KPL midweek fixtures:

Kakamega Homeboyz v Bandari (Mumias), Kariobangi Sharks v Western Stima (Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos), Sofapaka v Nzoia Sugar, Gor Mahia v Posta Rangers (Moi Stadium Kasarani), Mathare United v Nakumatt (Ruaraka Complex), Muhoroni Youth v Thika United (Muhoroni), Sony Sugar v Zoo Kericho (Awendo).

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 23 – The Kenya 15s rugby team will play their final test match in front of home fans this season when they take on Hong Kong in the second of back-to-back test series games at the RFUEA Ground on Saturday afternoon, looking to bow out with a win.

The Simbas were held to a 19-19 draw by the Hong Kong Dragons in the first test last weekend thanks to a last minute booted try but the team is not ready to make the same mistakes when they face the Asian team again.

“We have worked on so many areas of weakness from the first match especially in our defende, support play and more importantly the mental strength. This time, we want to go on and win because this is the last time we are playing at home,” assistant coach Dominic Habimana told Capital Sport.

He added; “We expect an even tougher game this weekend and we will raise our standards as well to match and exceed what Hong Kong brings on the table.”

Assistant captain Darwin Mukidza who has been one of the star players this season for the Simbas anticipates a tough match but has disclosed the secret will be to ensure the intensity of the game remains high.

“I expect a high intensity match because both teams are eager to win after last weekend’s draw. Of course we have polished up our weak areas and we are looking forward to win. We have worked on quick balls off the breakdown and we will be banking on the altitude; it favors us and we have to play a high intensity game to tire them off then strike,” the winger disclosed.

The technical bench led by South African Jerome Paarwater has rotated the squad from the one that played last weekend, fielding a stronger squad as they look to complete the job on Saturday.

KCB utility back Peter Kilonzo will make his test debut having worked hard in training with his last appearance being against the same opponents last year. He replaces David Ambunya who is ruled out with injury and will partner Leo Sejje at the centre.

The team will be skippered by Wilson Kopondo with last week’s captain George Ambunya dropping to the bench, same as the likes of Davis Ikambili, Oscar Simiyu and Lyle Asiligwa.

Fly-half Biko Adema misses out after failing to recover from the injury he picked up last weekend and according to Team manager Wangila Simiyu, his recovery might take a few weeks but should be ready for the Hong Kong trip.

“I wouldn’t call them wholesome changes, but all this is down to rotation. We have a very big squad of 40 players and everyone of them is part of the team. We have to give each a chance to prove himself on the pitch,” Simiyu noted.

Coach Habimana adds in that with the long season the team has had, it has been imperative to rotate the squad to ensure they have exploited all energy reserves and also give all the players ample time for rest and recovery.

Hong Kong is ranked 24th on the World Rugby standings, just a spot above Kenya. A win for the Simbas will be a huge boost for them to rake up ranking points and move beyond the visitors on the table.

Among the things that the team has worked on ahead of Saturday’s duel include support play especially from the line-outs, something that was lacking in the first match last weekend. The team has also polished on the kicking and scrums.

Kenya Simbas starting 15:

1.Moses Amusala 2.Peter Karia 3.Curtis Lilako 4.Simon Muniafu 5.Wilson Kopondo 6.Eric Kerre 7.Davies Chenge 8.Joshua Chisanga 9.Samson Onsomu 10.Isaac Adimo 11.Jacob Ojee 12.Leo Seje 13.Peter Kilonzo 14.Darwin Mukidza 15.Tony Onyango

Replacements

16.Philip Ikambili 17.Oscar Simiyu 18.Dennis Karani 19.Oliver Mangeni 20.George Nyambua 21.Lyle Asiligwa 22.Dennis Muhanji 23.Vincent Mose.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 23- Ugandan forward Umar Kassumba struck a first half brace as 2009 Kenyan Premier league champions Sofapaka cemented their hold of second spot on the table with a 3-1 win over Nzoia Sugar at the Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday.

Kassumba opened the scoring with a third minute header before Luke Namanda equalized for the visitors in the 21^st minute, but Batoto ba Mungu restored their lead through Ezekiel Okare as Kassumba added the second at the stroke of half time.

The win sees Sofapaka move to 37 points, three behind leaders Gor Mahia who face Posta Rangers at the same venue in the late kick off.

Batoto ba Mungu were off to a flier and in the third minute, they made their intentions known with Kassumba rising unmarked to head in a corner at the edge of the six yard box.

Nzoia were startled as they were yet to settle into the game and their poor defensive positions man-marking inside the box saw them go one behind.

But the Bungoma-based side gave in a fight to get back into the game and had a Masita Masuta goal disallowed for offside after the burly striker tapped home from a Namanda cross.

But the visitors would be away celebrating their equalizer in the 21^st minute when Sofapaka custodian Mathias Kigonya failed to hold on to a ferocious Namanda shot from the right, the sugar millers having picked up a throwing fast with Edwin Wafula finding the goal scorer.

Bernard Mwalala’s men had finally found their feet and were tearing Sofapaka apart from the counter. However, their main undoing was the lack of precision when it came to the business end of their movement.

Their crosses more often than not went overboard while the final key passes into goal scoring zones were wanting.

They were punished in the 37^th minute, again thanks to poor defending. Okare hit the ball between the Nzoia keeper’s legs from a tight angle on the right after easily breaking into the box.

At the stroke of half time, Kassumba completed his brace with a well taken low shot from the right, finishing off a swift move off a counter attack. Sofapaka had themselves escaped from the counter, Namanda making a poor decision to cut the ball back with only one man to beat and duly punished.

At the start of the second half, Mwalala made changes, Hillary Wandera coming off for Festus Okiring while Benjamin Muchuma was introduced for Brian Yakhama.

The visitors were off to a strong start. Masuta had a golden chance just two minutes into the half when he was sent through by Namanda, but he went down too easily after skipping past keeper Kigonya. His antics of trying to get a cheap penalty were punished with a yellow card.

The post Kassumba on a brace as Sofapaka down Nzoia appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 23- Meddie Kagere’s 22^nd minute goal handed Gor Mahia a 1-0 win over Posta Rangers in a tough Kenyan Premier League tie at Kasarani Stadium on Wednesday evening as Dylan Kerr maintained his 100 percent record since taking over as K’Ogalo coach.

The record 15-time champions however had to endure a nervous second half as they were pushed behind by the mailmen who forced them to a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

The result sees K’Ogalo maintain a six point buffer at the top of the KPL standings with a match in hand as they continue their mission to wrestle the league crown off Tusker FC.

Not even the slippery pitch and the extremely cold weather at Kasarani could dampen the spirit of the two teams who engaged in a high intensity game, each giving in as much as they received.

It was a frantic start to the match with Wellington Ochieng being forced to clear the ball from the line inside the opening two minutes after Dennis Mukaisi’s ball had skipped over keeper Peter Odhiambo.

On the other end, Patrick Matasi produced a fine finger tip save to turn a ferocious shot from Godfrey Walusimbi behind for a corner that was well dealt with by the Posta defense.

Gor were exploiting the left side of Posta’s defense with Karim Nizigiyimana and George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo using their speed to create space and float in the crosses. Twice they managed to bring in very inviting balls inside the box but Matasi proved equal to the task.

Odhiambo had a clean effort well collected by Matasi on the quarter hour mark when he glided in to the top of the area from the right slicing a low swirling shot.

Five minutes later, Meddie Kagere picked up a low ball from Nizigiyimana on the right at the near post but his cut back found no one in the box with Matasi beaten. On the other end, Kennedy Otieno’s shot from distance was picked up by Peter Odhiambo despite spilling it at the first take.

-Kagere goal-

Gor ultimately broke the deadlock in the 22^nd minute when Kagere finished off from a tight angle. Kenneth Muguna who has been embroiled in a transfer saga between him and his former coach Jose Marcelo Ferreira who wants to take him to Albania was the creator of the goal.

The midfielder outmuscled Jerry Santo for the ball in midfield, strode forward before sliding in a neat through ball to Kagere who made no mistake squeezing in the ball into Matasi’s near post.

Posta gave in a fight with as much intensity, hunting in for the equalizer but Gor Mahia’s defense was astute. Kenneth Wendo put in a shift manning his defensive midfield role with utmost finesse, winning most of the balls while Muguna did the distribution.

The mailmen kept their surge on and Otieno came close with a swirling freekick from distance which went inches over with Odhiambo in the Gor goal well beaten.

K’Ogalo should have wound up the half two up but they missed a glorious chance. Walusimbi tore up on the left to break into the box but the quality of his finish didn’t match the quality of his run as he blasted the ball over with only Matasi to beat.

-Second half-

Posta started the second half on the front foot pressing Gor into their own half. Keeper Odhiambo almost erred to gift the mailmen a lead when his late clearance from a backpass was blocked by Mukaisi, but luckily for him the ball ricocheted against his body.

On the other end, Gor’s first chance in the second half was via a Kagere shot from distance which was punched away by Matasi who recoevered again to pick the spills off a rushing Jacques Tuyisenge.

Posta kept pushing and pushing in search of the equalizer and their momentum was punctured in the 65^th minute when the game was stopped for close to five minutes due to faulty floodlights.

Upon resumption, Sammy Omollo’s men kept their surge. Erick Kibiru and Mukaisi had their long range shots saved by Odhiambo while Jerry Santo’s header from a Titus Achesa freekick went over by inches.

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