Kakamega lock horns with Jinja in semis

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Kakamega High School’s Green Commandos were yesterday two games away from winning this year’s Brookside East Africa Secondary School games football title.

The Kenyan giants defeated rivals and compatriots St Anthony’s Kitale 3-0 yesterday to book a place in the last four.

Henry Juma netted a brace while Ronald Sichenje added the third for Kakamega setting a second date with hosts Jinja Secondary School.

Jinja beat hosts St Joseph’s Layibi 4-3 on post-match penalties after both sides tied 1-1 in regular time to the disappointment of their fans.

The other semis clash will be an all Ugandan battle as 11-time East Africa champions St Mary’s Kitende face Nakaseke International School.

With Uganda guaranteed a place in the final, all Kenyans here are praying for a Kakamega victory (the second in this year’s games) and book a place in tomorrow’s decisive match.

It would be a moment of pride for Kakamega, after Barding won last year’s title.

Kakamega captain Job Ochieng believes they have what it takes to beat Jinja for the second time and secure a place in the final.

“We have a big task ahead but even though we are in unfamiliar grounds, we are determined to make it to the final. We are confident of our ability and I believe we have what it takes to go all the way and win the crown,” Ochieng said.

Kakamega coach Brendan Mwinamo cautioned his charges though, saying their opening match win against Jinja will count for nothing in today’s clash.

“I believe they will come out guns blazing because they want to avenge their loss and above all, secure a semis slot. That is what is at stake. We will, however, remain cautious and fight to the final whistle,” he said.

Kakamega will rely on the services of their forwards including Juma, Sichenje and Harambee Stars trialists James Mazembe and Chris Alpha Ochieng for success in Gulu, Uganda.

In the girls’ title chase, Wiyeta will battle Alliance in today’s semifinal. The other semis duel will be a Ugandan affair pitting Kawempe against Rubaga.

The Kenyan girls defeated Saint Basile of Burundi 6-0 in their quarter-final match.