Africa-Press – Kenya. National Cereals and Produce Board long-serving captain Timothy Kirimi is confident the team will retain the Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) Super Cup tomorrow. The Millers, who are also the national and regional champions, face arch-rivals KDF Ulinzi in an epic final at Nyayo Stadium, starting at 3.30 pm.
Kirimi said they have tried to polish up a few things in their defensive and offensive systems as well as seal the loopholes identified during the weekend matches.
“As a team, we feel very confident due to our performance over the weekend. We played well and tactically tried different systems that we feel will work to disarm Ulinzi. It’ll not be easy but we are upbeat,” he offered.
Kirimi noted that NCPB’s strength comes from a deeply entrenched traditional system of training and playing as they combine experience, youthful talent, and an unmatched technical bench.
He equally expressed respect for the opponent, saying they have highly skilled players, which puts them at an advantage beyond most teams. He, however, exuded confidence that his players are equal to the task.
Apart from Kirimi, who has captained NCPB since 2017, other key players are William Malui, Brian Walukhu and Robert Maraga who combined for 17 goals in their 38-26 semi-finals triumph over Strathmore University. The marauding duo of Snox Collins and Nicholas Okore is also expected to add bite to the reigning champions’ potent offense.
Ulinzi, who made it to the finals after deflated Black Mamba 33-22, will be no pushover as they have proved over the years. Going by their 30-30 draw in the league, NCPB will be in for a tough afternoon.
The soldiers are banking on the heroics of goalkeeper Duncan Kimutai, Frank Kiplagat, and Kevin Imo. Also to watch are Gideon Mulwa, Noah Cheruiyot, Nicholas Ireri, and Abel Weru. The women’s final match will see champions Nairobi Water, whose coach Jack Ochieng just bagged the March Coach of the Month award, take on NCPB.
Sharks are perched at the top of the table with a four-team group with four points from two wins while Water Queens, NCPB and Rangers all have two points each from one win. Victory for either side will see this season’s winner determined on goal difference.
Roving captain Gladys Chilo, Brenda Musambai, Brenda Arivisa, Cecilia Katheu and Michelle Oyoo will lead the Water Queens onslaught for another title.
NCPB will bank on the exploits of Sarah Mabonga, Adda Musilibi, Sharon Akoth, Joan Akinyi and Joan Akinyi to provide honours that has eluded them for long.
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