Central Region girls’ football champions, Nginda, believe that this is their year to shine. Despite dominating their region for the past five years, they are yet to win the national trophy.
Their best performance was last year when they finished third behind Wiyeta and winners St John’s Kaloleni. For them, it was an achievement and a display of growth that they are seeking to improve on.
Nginda coach Clinton Otolo said their aim is to play in this year’s final.
“We have maintained an upward trend in our performances nationally and we are determined to improve once again this year.
“We are focused and want to play in the finals and possibly, win the title,” Otolo said.
In 2013 and 2014, Nginda did not win a match at the nationals and finished last in both years. They did not give up and their efforts bore fruit as they finished in fourth in 2015.
Last year, they came close to playing in the final, but lost in the semi-finals to St John’s Kaloleni in post-match penalties. They beat Nyakach in third-place playoffs to complete the podium.
Christine Kitarudi, who won the Most Valuable Player at last year’s national games, will lead Nginda in attack together with Cynthia Ochiko and Faith Evayo. Captain Monica Kamau and Foscah Nashivanda will be in the midfield.
They are in Group A together with Ibinzo of Western, who return to the nationals after a four-year absence. Former holders Wiyeta of Rift Valley and first-timers Kwale Girls of Coast are also in the mix.
Group B has returnees Kobala Mixed of Nyanza, 2013 champions Olympic Mixed of Nairobi, debutantes Utithi of Eastern and Njambin of Central. Njambin lost 3-0 to Nginda in the battle for the Central trophy.
[Elizabeth Mburugu]