2015 FIVB world Grand Prix: Malkia Strikers are the champions after defeating Peru in Australia

Kenya's Malkia Strikers during the 2015 FIVB world Grand Prix final match against Peru at Canberra, AustraliaCaption

At first glance it seemed impossible  but after a gruelling three rounds of the 2015 FIVB world Grand Prix, Kenya's Malkia Strikers have been crowned the overall Group Three winners  after beating  Peru 3-1 in a thrilling  final, in Canberra, Australia, today morning.

"It is a great achievement and dream come true to the players and  technical bench. With God everything is possible. We can't wait to compete in Group Two next year," said Kenya left attacker Mercy Moim.

Having lost by three sets to Peru in their first match in the Mexico leg, the nine time African Champions came into the final as underdogs but to the players being a re-match more so a final was primed to be a perfect cock tail.

But their performance in the second leg in Algeria would deserve victory at just any world event. And indeed that's a perfectly and deservedly revange for Malkia, winning their first ever global trophy in their second attempt at Grand Prix and in the process qualify to participate in the Group Two next year.

"It is just unbelievable but we thank God for everything. After the Algeria leg, we had a feeling that we can reach the final, but wasn't sure of winning it," said libero Elizabeth Wanyama.

Coach David Lung'aho had to start with Noel Murambi after his regular right attacker Evelyn Makuto came down with stomach problems just after Saturday's 3-0 semifinal victory over hosts Australia.

The match started on a high tempo with both teams exchanging the leads in the first set before opened a two point lead 8-6 at the first technical time out thanks to Angela Levya spikes.

Kenya responded with the trio of Janet Wanja, Brackcides Agala and Murambi combining to draw level 12-12.  However, after a series of a neck and neck affair, Peru capitalized on Kenya's poor back defense and reception to pocket the first set 25-21.

Like a wounded lion, Malkia Strikers came out in the second set a more rejuvenated side with Murambi proving her worthiness inspiring Kenya to an early 8-5 lead at the first TTO. Kenya maintained the lead 16-9 into the second TTO before instrumental left attacker Mercy Moim razor blade spikes earned the African queens them a 25-17 win.

The third set was more captivating with Peru starting off aggressively but  Lydia Maiyo and Ruth Jepngetich water tight blocks denied them tie 6-6 before Kenya led 8-7. Poor reception could have cost Kenya the set with Peru's Leyva powerful spikes tormenting their defense. However, the home girls held their nerves to take the set 25-22.

Peru showed a very good pace at the start of the fourth set taking a 6-3, 7-5 and 11-9, but the African champions were able to keep close behind and equalized at 14-14 after Lung'aho requested for time out. The pep talk paid off as Kenya  completed an amazing comeback by stepping to 21-18 and went ahead to claim the set 25-23 thanks to Maiyo and Jepngetich's impressive blocks.

In an earlier match, Colombia beat hosts Australia in straight sets of 25-12,25-22 and 25-16 to win the bronze medal.

The triumphant Malkia Strikers are expected back in the country on July 14.

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