Mbooni shift focus to Eastern Region titles

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After reigning supreme in Makueni County, fast-rising Mbooni Boys have now set their eyes on the Eastern Region handball and basketball titles.

Mbooni, who are gradually positioning themselves as a sports powerhouse in the region, will be looking to successfully defend the regional handball title and win their maiden basketball gong.

Having finished second on their debut at last year’s National Term One games, handball captain Meshack Kasaine says they are eager to make their second appearance and bag the coveted trophy.

“We now focus all our energies on retaining the Eastern Region title, the county games were very competitive but it will be tougher at the region and so we must remain focused and prepare very well,” Kasaine said.

He added that in Embu where the regional games will be held, they expect stiff competition from Matuu Day who they beat last year in the final to lift the trophy.

Mbooni thrashed rivals Nduluni 53-23 to be crowned champions. In the girls contest, Nduluni edged out Munyuni 29-21 to secure the bragging rights. In basketball, Mbooni retained their trophy with a resounding 76-31 victory over Matiliku while Makueni Girls beat Barazani 20-13 to win the girls’ trophy.

Mbooni basketball captain George Odhiambo said they will be out to secure a place at this year’s national games set for Kapsabet next month.

“We came so close last year but failed to make it after losing in the final to Miruriiri.

“It was a very painful missing the national slot by half a basket, the pain of losing is what is driving us now,” Odhiambo said.

Miruriiri snatched the ticket to the nationals with a 69-68 win.

St Joseph’s Kibwezi recaptured the girls’ hockey title after edging out Makindu Girls 1-0 in the final, while Matiliku bagged the boys crown after beating Mukaa by the same margin.

St Joseph’s will be hoping to stamp authority in Eastern where they have dominated winning back-to-back titles.

St Joseph’s coach Gabriel Ndunga said they are eyeing the national title so they must retain the regional.

“Our eyes are fixed on the national title but we must maneuver the regional hurdle and my girls are determined to make it.

Mwaani Boys ruled rugby winning both the 15s and 7s titles.

Eastern Region games will be held at Kangaru School this month from 17 to 22.

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