East Africa Games: Kakamega and Kwale pick tickets to contest in Rwanda

KSSSA 2018 Kakamega High Scool's Dan Oloo (left) and Victor Barongo of Dagoreti High Schooll during the 10th Edition of Copa Coca Cola Kenya Secondary Schools Sports games at The Hill School, Eldoret on Friday July 27, 2018. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kakamega High and Kwale Girls were yesterday crowned under-19 boys’ and girls’ football champions as the curtains fell on the 2018 secondary school national term two games at Hill School, Eldoret.

After close to one and hour in a fruitless battle, Henry Agola’s 90th minute header handed Kakamega their 13th title. Kwale Girls clinched their maiden title after a 4-1 win over 2011 winners Archbishop Njenga.

A brace from forward Saumu Baya and another goal from Lucy Kwekwe gave Kwale a comfortable 3-1 lead at the break. Anna Arusi pulled one back for the 2011 champions. Kwale were home and dry with Elizabeth Katungwa’s 58th minute goal.

Agola’s goal ended Kakamega’s three year wait having won last in 2014 when they hosted the games at Bukhungu Stadium. 

Kakamega coach Brenden Mwinamo said the win was well deserved because his charges had played their hearts out throughout the tournament. He also lauded Olbolsat goalkeeper Victor Mwangi, saying he was in top form denying them many scoring opportunities.

“It was a match between us and their keeper because he kept us at bay for long periods but we managed to beat him. We have endured heartbreak in the last three years but today we can rejoice,” Mwinamo said.

His Olobosat counterpart Francis Muhambe was proud of his charges despite their loss. “It was unfortunate we concede at such a time but I have to congratulate my boys for their fighting spirit throughout the competition,” Muhambe said.

Kakamega were the better side creating a lot of chances which were, however, brilliantly kept out by Olbolsat keeper Mwangi. Kakamega Captain Chris Alpha Onyango and Joshua Otieno called the shots in the midfield for Kakamega, who comfortably settled in the match to dictate the proceedings.

Kakamega dominated the match from the onset pinning Olbolsat in their own half and keeping goalkeeper  Mwangi busy with their frequent attacks. 

Kakamega’s five corners in the first half showed their prowess as Olbolsat who eliminated four-time winners St Anthony’s in the semis were left with no choice but to stay back and defend. 

The second half followed the same script as Kakamega continued with their onslaughts in a bid to break the deadlock. Mwangi was again at his best as he made brilliants saves.

With extra time looming, Boniface Ooko delivered a perfect cross which Agola headed to finally break Mwangi’s resistance and the final whistle seconds later saw Kakamega fans bust into celebration.