GSU eye maximum points in title race as KPA, Prisons, KDF and Equity keep chase
Fresh from winning the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Cup in Tanzania last week, Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) defending champions General Service Unit (men) are eyeing maximum points in the four remaining matches set to be played today and tomorrow at Kapsabet, as they seek to clinch another title unbeaten.
The two-day competition serves as the seventh and ultimate regular league leg from where the top four finishers are set to line up for the playoffs played in a round-robin format at Kasarani Stadium.
GSU head coach Gideon Tarus say the team is ready to do battle for another unbeaten crown both in the regular league and playoffs. The paramilitary side line up against Mombasa Prisons and arch rivals Prisons Kenya today before taking on Administration Police and Equity Bank tomorrow.
“These are tough sides and we are not taking anything for granted. We have prepared like we would against any other opponent for the four matches. The squad is rearing to go. The return of Cornelius Kiplagat and Abiud Kipkirui who did duty in the last leg held in Nanyuki has increased my options and depth as we look to clinch the title unbeaten for the third consecutive time,” said Tarus, who has just rejoined the side after taking part in a FIVB International Beach Volleyball coaching course in Bangkok, Thailand.
Last year, the holders dropped two sets, one to Kenya Ports Authority in a 3-1 outcome, and another to Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a similar result and are looking to better that record by not dropping any apart from the one they have already lost in the seven matches played.
On paper, GSU, KPA and Prisons are favourites for the top three positions with fourth-placed KDF set to fight for a playoff position with Equity Bank. KDF have 15 points from seven matches, winning five and losing two. The Bankers are tied on points with the soldiers but have played eight matches for five wins.
KDF are set to play AP Kenya, KPA and Vihiga County today before facing off with Nairobi Prisons and military counterparts Kenya Army tomorrow. Equity play Prisons Mombasa today and GSU tomorrow.
