Kobala delight in return to games

Nyanza Region Girls’ football champions Kobala Mixed are relishing their return to the national finals after a one-year absence.

They defeated perennial rivals Nyakach Girls 3-1 in post-match penalties to reclaim the region’s title and secure their spot at this year’s secondary schools national Term Two B Games that begin in Nyeri next week.

Kobala had a successful outing the last time they featured at the nationals, finishing second behind winners Wiyeta. Their hard work earned them a ticket to the East Africa games.

Regional games

They are now determined to go all the way to the regional games in Gulu, Uganda, in August.

To achieve this feat, the Homa Bay County side must fight for a place in the national finals, an objective team coach Dennis Kaunda said was attainable.

“With hard work, discipline and determination, our objectives are achievable. We have prepared for this year’s competition long enough and I believe our efforts and dedication will not be in vain,” Kaunda said.

He added that his players were determined to impress just like they did two years ago.

Lacked ambition

“We missed last year’s event because my players lacked ambition and rode on our 2015 success. However, this year is different because most of them completed Form Four and I’m fielding a young squad that is eager for success on the big stage.

"We know what is expected of us and we'll go for nothing less."

Kobala are in Group B together with Eastern champions Utithi Mixed, Njabini and 2013 national champions Olympic Mixed.

Group B has hosts Nginda, Wiyeta of Rift Valley, Ibinzo of Western and Kwale Girls of Coast.