• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 days ago

KU captain Tandasi admits to complacency as KUSF Games football champions held in opener‎

Four-time national football champions Kenyatta University (KU) were held to a goalless draw by hosts University of Eldoret (UoE) as the 10th edition of the Kenya University Sports Federation (KUSF) games kicked off on Tuesday at the University of Eldoret grounds.

‎Playing in front of an intimidating home crowd, KU’s “Hard Nuts” created several clear chances but failed to find the back of the net, settling for a barren draw on the opening day of the championships.

‎KU captain Austin Tandasi admitted missed chances cost his side victory but remained confident of bouncing back as they chase a successful title defence.

“We came into the match confident of winning. We created three good scoring chances but failed to score, and that was our biggest challenge. The draw has brought some pressure, but we are preparing well for the next matches,” said Tandasi.

‎Despite the stalemate, Tandasi assured fans that the defending champions will regain their winning touch in the remaining fixtures.

‎Host captain Jeff Oluoch described the encounter as tough, terming the draw a morale booster for UoE.

“We knew KU are the defending champions and their game is top notch. Playing them at home was not easy. A draw for us feels like a win,” said Oluoch.

‎‎In rugby sevens, KU continued their dominance, remaining unbeaten in a round-robin competition that attracted five universities. They opened their campaign with a 19–5 win over debutants Koitalel Samoe University College, who endured a tough introduction to the games after losing all their matches.

‎KU’s Black Blad also recorded a win over USIU, while former champions Moi University thrashed Koitalel 31–0. KU later edged hosts UoE 14–5 to maintain their perfect run.

‎‎Overall, the championships has attracted about 20 universities, competing in football, athletics, rugby sevens, volleyball, basketball, handball, hockey, karate, chess, swimming, table tennis, tennis and netball. Athletics events are set to begin today.

‎‎KUSF President Kibet Rono praised universities for overcoming financial challenges to stage the games, noting improved performances at the international level.

“We recently returned from the World University Games in Germany where the team won five medals. We are hopeful of even better performances in upcoming events,” said Rono.

‎‎He added that the UoE venue serves as a key training hub for athletes from the North Rift region, with KUSF working closely with national federations to improve Kenya’s global rankings.

‎‎University of Eldoret Vice Chancellor Prof Thomas Cheruiyot and Meru University VC Prof Romanus Odhiambo emphasized the importance of sports in higher education.

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“University games are part of the curriculum and a celebration of diversity. Supporting sports is not optional,” said Prof Odhiambo, calling for stronger partnerships with government, corporates and alumni to support university sports.

‎‎The KUSF games continue today with more action expected across various disciplines.