Standard FC, Nation FC to renew rivalry at SJAK tourney

From Left: Laliga Kenya delegate Alvaro Abrev, Head of Strategy Bounty LTD Christopher Kandie and SJAK chairman James Waindi during yesterday's draw at Nyayo Stadium. [Courtesy]

Standard Group FC will renew their rivalry with Nation Media Group FC in this year's edition of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) slated for Saturday at Galleria Arena, Nairobi.

The former Standard Chartered Bank Road to Anfield football tournament champions headline a tough Group C which also has MediaMax FC and Makueni Journalists.

The winners of the 16 team tournament (five-aside) will pocket Sh50,000 in prize money while the runners up and third-placed teams will receive Sh30,000 and Sh20,000 respectively.

The event which has been organised by SJAK in conjunction with Laliga will coincide with the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) Day. Other sponsors include KCB, DSTV and Safari Premium Drink.

Speaking after conducting draws at the Nyayo Stadium yesterday, Laliga delegate Alvaro Abreu said the Spanish league managers were happy to partner with Kenyan sports scribes.

"It's such an honour to be here and more so that we are associating with journalists who write about the sports. We have hosted other football related events before which have been successful and this event is timely as it will help the public know more about the brand. We are excited to host you and we hope to work in unison with you going forward, " said Abreu.

SJAK chairman James Waindi said they are looking forward to an exciting event on Saturday.

"20 teams had shown interest in competing in the event but we trimmed to 16 teams guided by the directive we had earlier shared. The teams are drawn across the country. But at the end of the day it's not all about the competition but the sportsmanship. I wish all the teams success," said Waindi.

Group A has Radio Africa, Cape Media, Athletics News FC and Royal Media services. KBC, CGTN, SuperSport and Freelance Journalists are all in Group B, while BBC will battle with Kass Fm, Mashinani FC and Mozzart Sports in Group D.