KU reclaim football title as JKUAT, Zetech shine at KUSF Women Championships

Zetech Sparks in action against Kisii University in women's basketball in Voi/ HANDOUT

Kenyatta University bounced back from last year’s heartbreak to reclaim the Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) Women’s Championships football title during the International Women’s Day tournament held at Taita Taveta University grounds in Voi.

Kenyatta University defeated the University of Eldoret 2–0 in the final to complete an impressive unbeaten run across the three-day competition.

Goals from Sheila Juma and Hope Wandera in either half sealed the victory for KU, and crowned them champions after finishing runners-up last year, to Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.

The two teams had earlier faced off in the competitive Pool A stage, but KU once again proved superior in the final, controlling the match from start to finish. KU head coach Joseph Ndung’u attributed the triumph to solid preparation and the resilience shown by his players throughout the tournament.

“The journey has been very good because we were well prepared before coming to the championships. The players have shown character and resilience since we arrived. We thank God for the victory because it has been a difficult journey after losing last year’s title, and now we are champions,” said Ndung’u.

“Since the tournament started, we have not lost any match. I thank my players, the management for the support, the hosts for their hospitality and KUSF for showing the way for the girls that they can do it,” he added.

Despite the defeat, University of Eldoret head coach Josphat Pilishi described reaching the final as a major milestone for the institution. “For the first time reaching the national finals, I am glad. The players gave it their all, and it is a great opportunity for me as a coach,” said Pilishi.

“UOE was in a tough pool, but we managed to qualify and reach the semifinals. In the final, fatigue played a role after a tough semifinal against Chuka University, where we came from 1–0 down to win 2–1. By the time we reached the final, the team was too tired,” he explained.

In hockey, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology claimed bragging rights in the Thika Road derby after edging neighbours Kenyatta University 2–1 to lift the title.

Forward Tabbie Njeri scored twice for JKUAT while Ivy Mung’ole netted KU’s consolation goal. JKUAT captain Hera Joy credited teamwork and determination for their success.

“It has been an incredible journey after a good fight to become champions. We thank our school for supporting the trip and providing the necessary equipment,” said Joy.

“The biggest challenge was the hot sun and the unfriendly pitch, where the ball bounced a lot, causing injuries to players. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we dedicate this victory to all women. It is a great initiative by KUSF in growing talent, and we are improving each time,” she added.

Elsewhere, Zetech University successfully defended its basketball title after edging Kisii University 38–34 in a tightly contested final.

Kenyatta University also excelled in other disciplines, clinching the handball title after defeating Embu University 19–08 before completing a dominant run in netball with a commanding 51–30 victory over Kisii University.