Eyes on the ball: KVF National play-offs promise fireworks

Kenya Prisons centre attacker Brackcides Agala in action against Kenya Pipeline during the Africa Clubs Championships in Tunisia on April 13, 2017. Prisons won the match 3-2. [CAVB]

Stage set for bruising playoffs in Mombasa.

After last weekend's final leg of the 2017 Kenya Volleyball Federation League season, stage is now set for some hard-nosed national playoffs, on December 1-3, at Makande Hall, in Mombasa.

Going by the level of competition exhibited in Baringo where the Governor's Cup finals were rained off (General Service Unit v Prisons Kenya-men and Kenya Pipeline v Prisons Kenya-women), expect fireworks in the upcoming playoffs.

Former men's champions GSU beat Co-operative Bank 3-1 to end their season unbeaten (12 games) with 34 points, while Kenya Ports Authority denied Kenya Defence Forces the final playoffs slot for the second successive year. They defeated KDF 3-2 before gaining a crucial point in their 3-2 defeat to champions Prisons Kenya.

Despite his side being in a devastating form, GSU coach Gideon Tarus expects difficult matches as they aim to reclaim the title they lost to Prisons last year.

"I am impressed with the boys' performance this season. Finishing the league unbeaten is not an easy thing, I  think this is our year," said Tarus.

"Of course it is going to be tough against Prisons, and the unpredictable KPA as well as Co-operative, but we are determined to bring back the title."

"With the current squad, GSU will be the team to beat in the next five years or so. We need to start by winning the title in Mombasa. We really thank the management for their relentless support."

There were surprises in the women's league where champions Kenya Pipeline broke Prisons Kenya's unbeaten run (3-0) and consequently dislodged them from top of the table standings.

It is the type of victory that Pipeline coach Japheth Munala needed as they chase their fourth consecutive national title.

"We are happy after that win against Prisons because it gives us courage and determination ahead of the playoffs. I think Prisons were not in a good shape when they came for the tournament," said Munala.

"We will fight it out and hope to win again for the fourth time running."

Although disappointed, Prisons coach David Lung'aho believes the Eldama Ravine defeat was a wake-up call for his team ahead of the Mombasa extravaganza.

"Sometimes such things happen in sports. It is good for us as it has exposed our mistakes and weaknesses. We are going to work on before the playoffs," said Lung'aho.

"I believe we are still in a good position to reclaim the title, but we really need to work hard. If we play like we did in Ravine, to be honest, it will be difficult for us."