GSU and Prisons keep up impressive run in Egypt

R Kipkurui (18) and team-mate D. Mokua (right) of Prisons attempts to block a spike by S. Bitok (15) of GSU in the second volleyball men's match as the Kenya Volleyball Federation national play-offs got underway at the KPA Makande Gym, November 27, 2015. GSU won 3-1. [PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

Men’s national champions General Service Unit continued their impressive run at the African Club Championship, seeing off Wolaitta of Ethiopia 3-1 in their second Group D match at Ahly Hall in Cairo, Egypt, yesterday.

This was the second paramilitary side’s victory after stunning favourites Olympique of Algeria by the same margin (20-25, 25-15, 26-24, 25-17) on Tuesday.

Prisons Kenya, who were due to clash with Congolese side Espoir in their second Group A match last evening, also made a winning start at the tournament with a comfortable straight sets win over Lesotho’s Redskin (25-15, 25-14, 25-22).

The day two victory put GSU in a pole position to qualify for the knockout round with two fixtures to go.

Although GSU head coach Gideon Tarus was full of praise for his players, he urged them to remain focused ahead of today’s (6pm) decisive fixture against Port from Cameroon.

“Let me first of all congratulate the boys for playing their hearts out. Though we won against Wolaitta, we still have a lot of work to do. It is not yet celebration time. We have to fight hard in our remaining matches and hopefully top our group,” Tarus told The Standard Sports on the phone.

But the former national team coach was quick to credit his tactical shift and two friendly matches against Egyptian clubs for the positive start in the competition.

“To be honest, the two friendlies that we had here have really helped us. We were able to rectify our weaknesses mostly in reception and service,” said Tarus.

“We lost the first set due to poor reception, but after shifting David Kirwa to the left we bounced back in the second set and eventually won the match. The victory really boosted our morale. We are looking forward to continue with the same spirit in all our remaining matches.”

Just like GSU, Prisons coach Paul Muthinja outlined what they want to achieve at the continental showpiece after a good start.

“Of course the competition is very stiff considering a record 24 teams are taking part. But we have a target, which is to at least reach the semifinals,” said Muthinja.

“We thank the Almighty God for the winning start. Everybody worked hard and I am impressed by the team’s spirit and how we carried ourselves in that match. The focus is superb and everybody is eager to win the next matches.”