KENYANS ON COURSE FOR FINAL: Malkia Strikers extend dominance over Mexico in Grand Prix

Kenya at Mexico Grand Prix
Kenya's Mercy Moim receives the ball as Brackcides Agala (centre) and Everline Makuto watches on during a Grand Prix match against Mexico in Mexico City on June 27, 2015. PHOTO: FIVB

Malkia Strikers continued with their dominance over Mexico after beating the North Americans by straight sets of 25-20, 25-17, 25-22 in the opening match of the FIVB World Grand Prix Pool Q at Cheraga, Algeria on Friday night

This was the third victory for the nine-time African champions against Mexico whom they beat 3-1 last year and 3-2 in last week’s first round of the 2015 edition in Monterrey.

Kenya started off strongly with left attacker Mercy Moim’s razor blade spikes, libero Elizabeth Wanyama’s perfect reception and water tight blocks of the duo of Esther Wangeci and Ruth Jepngetich propelling the home girls to a 3-0 victory.

The performance left head coach David Lung’aho a happy man with the Prisons Kenya tactician dedicating the victory to experienced setter Janet Wanja who is down with gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhoea).

“We had an impressive game with less mistakes today,” said Lung’aho. “I am pleased with the players performance and I look forward to our next match against Australia.

“Our target is to win all the three matches since its only 3-0 or 3-1 win that will give us a fair chance to qualify for the final round in Australia.

“We dedicate this win to Wanja who is down with Gastroenteritis and wish her quick recovery.”

After the victory, the decorated setter took to her Facebook account to congratulate her teammates for a job well-done. “I am sad I could not make it to the match but I give glory to the Lord for the win. Congratulations my girls for beating Mexico 3-0 and for not letting me down. I am so happy,” wrote Wanja.

Moim, who was the highest scorer with 17 points, four more than captain Brackcides Agala could not hide her joy.

“I thank God for the sweet victory plus emerging the top points earner with 17. God is good all the time,” said Moim.

Mexico coach Jorge Miguel conceded defeat saying Kenya deserved to win.

“It is unfortunate we have not won any of our last four matches, but today we lost to a better team,” said Miguel. “The switch of roles of attacker Rangel Andrea from left to right after Sainz Lizbeth injury cost us.”

Kenya were due to play Australia last night at 7.10 pm and will to wrap up their Algiers tour with a clash against their perennial rivals Algeria tonight.

Victory in all matches will take Kenya to the last round of the Grand Prix in Australia on Saturday, July 11.

In another match played on Friday, hosts Algeria beat Australia 3-2 .