Volleyball: GSU disarm KDF, Prisons drain leaking Pipeline

Record men’s league winners GSU and former women’s champions Kenya Prisons on Friday put one foot on the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) end-of-season league playoffs finals following wins in the first leg of the semi-finals at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.

GSU disarmed KDF 3-0 sets (25-21, 25-20,25-19) in the first men’s semi-final before champions Kenya Prisons defeated determined KPA 3-1 (25-23, 25-17, 21-25, 25-21) sets to claim the first leg advantage.

In the women’s contest, champions KCB had to dig deep to see off stubborn DCI 3-2 sets (25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 17-25, 16-14).

The electrifying match had spectators on the edge of their seats as KCB clinched the first, second, and fifth sets with scores of 25-17, 25-19, and 16-14 respectively, securing a crucial win ahead of the return fixture on Saturday.

The contest was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the reigning champions taking control in the initial stages of the match. Their formidable attack and tight defence saw them comfortably win the first two sets.

However, DCI, refusing to be swept aside, mounted a spirited comeback, taking the third and fourth sets (25-21, 25-17). Tension in the arena was palpable as the match headed into the decisive fifth set.

Both teams showcased incredible skill and tenacity, trading points in a gripping finale.

With the score tied at 14-14, KCB dug deep, drawing on their championship pedigree to score the final points and seal the set 16-14.

Despite the victory, KCB head coach Japheth Munala remained cautious, warning his charges not to underrate any team.

“We need to work on our mistakes. Today's game was too close for comfort, and if we want to win tomorrow and qualify for the finals, we must improve. We relaxed after winning the first two sets and our players should know that the match is over when it’s 3-0 and not 2-0. All the teams here are strong.”

KCB's performance was a testament to their fighting spirit, but Munala's words reflect the underlying challenges they face.

With Friday's match setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the playoffs, volleyball fans eagerly await to see if KCB can iron out their flaws and rise to the occasion once more or DCI are ready to write a new order in the volleyball league.

In another semi-final fixture, former champions Kenya Prisons continued their impressive run in the league climax after thrashing nemesis Kenya Pipeline 3-0 (25-21, 25-23, 25-16) to stay on course as they seek to reclaim their title which they lost two years ago.

The playoffs, which are being played in a best of three series, continue on Saturday for the return fixtures at the same venue with aggregate winners proceeding to the finals to be held next week.