Kenya Pipeline too strong for KCB as KVF league resumes

The former champions were the first to come off the blocks winning the first set 25-23 before KCB restored parity in the second set with 25-20 but the Oilers held on to claim the subsequent two sets in identical 25-20.

KCB head coach Japheth Munala said: “We struggled a lot today against a very good side. We are trying many combinations and instilling our system in the new guys who are joining the team after the departure of (Sharon) Chepchumba. Our attention now shifts to tomorrow’s game and the playoffs which are edging closer.”

The Bankers lost the services of Opposite Attacker Sharon Jepchumba who joined Greece side Aris Thessaloniki back in October and Munala believes the void she left is still being felt.

He has however expressed optimism in the young blood to propel the team to the play-off bracket as they eye to win their first league title after a long hiatus.

Captain Edith Wisah termed the thumping as a bad day in office even as she expressed optimism of winning the league title.

“The girls played well today but it was a bad day in the office. We are regrouping as a team and I can promise our fans that we will register positive results when we face DCI tomorrow.”

KCB will play DCI on Saturday while Pipeline are likely to get a walk over as Kenya Army are yet to arrive in Mombasa.

League leaders and reigning champions Kenya Prisons also skipped the event due to financial constraints and losing nine points could make their playoff chances a pipedream and further complicate their title defence chance.

The women's league was put on hold during Malkia Strikers' participation in the recently concluded World Championships in Netherlands and Poland.