TOSS TO NEW CHAMPS: Strathmore University reclaim hockey league title

The long wait is over!

After six years of tears, heartbreak and failed attempts, Strathmore University Gladiators finally reclaimed their Kenya Hockey Union men's premier league title.

Coming up against star-studded Butali Sugar Warriors in the final, many wrote them off and declared the sugar men champions and were awaiting confirmation after the final whistle.
But no! They refused to let Warriors and their critics have their way. They knew they were in the battle for victory and fight they did. Despite conceding an early goal they refused to be intimidated. They charged on seeking an equalizer and their efforts paid off when Paul Omariba converted a penalty corner.
With determination written all over their faces, they gained control of the game tormenting Warriors who were hopeful of retaining the title. They came close to taking the lead but their efforts were thwarted by a vigil Warriors defence of veteran Saidi Okwemba, internationals Kenneth Nyongesa, Maxwell Fuchaka and Tony Nyunkuri.
Heavens opened in the 52nd minute forcing them off pitch. They were determined to finish the job and they could be heard speaking in hushed tones saying that the rain had just delayed their celebration. They plotted to complete the job after the rains just like they had done with Police in the semi-finals after the rains interrupted the match last weekend.
Yesterday they completed the job stretching Butali all the way to penalty shootouts. The Gladiators will have their second choice goalkeeper John Brown to thank after he saved three penalties to ensure that they won the gong. Brown came on in the 70th minute after Strathmore coach Meshack Senge realised that the winner will be decided on one on one with the goalkeeper.
Brown saved Zack Aura and Seth Oburu's shots while he frustrated Frank Wanangwe's effort forcing him to send the ball off target. Warriors goalkeeper Evanson Ngoya on the other hand was a no show as he allowed the opponents have their way.
Senge said that they overcame Warriors because they desired the title more than they did. ''We wanted this trophy more than them (Butali) and our hard work and determination paid off,'' Senge said.
His Butali equal Cliffe Okello said that the loss was a wake up call for his men. ''This is a wake up call for us because we had gotten used to winning that we forgot what it feels to lose. I hope this gets my players out of the comfort zone as we prepare for the club championships.''
Strathmore last won the league title in 2009. This is their third overall.

Glance Box
Regular time score: 1-1
Butali: Frank Wanangwe 10th minute
Strathmore: Paul Omariba 42nd

Penalty shootout score 3-0
Strathmore scorers
Francis Kariuki
Dan Onyango
Derrick Kuloba

Missed
Festus Onyango

Butali missed penalties
Zack Aura
Frank Wanangwe
Seth Oburu