• VOLLEYBALL

• Frank Rotich 28 days ago

Munala praises his charges as KCB beat rivals Kenya Pipeline to book slot in African Club Championship final

KCB Women’s Volleyball Team are through to the final of the CAVB Women’s Club Championship in Cairo, Egypt, after a strong comeback to beat rivals Kenya Pipeline 3-1 in the semi-finals.

KCB had a slow start, losing the first set 25-16 as Pipeline took early control of the match. But the bankers quickly regrouped, showing great determination and teamwork to turn the game around.

They dominated the second set 25-10 with improved defence and better service reception to level the match. KCB then carried the momentum into the third set, winning 25-15, with setter Esther Mutinda delivering an impressive performance.

In the fourth set, KCB raised their intensity, controlling the game with strong attacks, solid blocks, and effective serving to seal a 25-19 win and complete the 3-1 victory.

Head Coach Japheth Munala praised his players for their response after a difficult start.

 “We did not begin the way we wanted, but after the first set, we adjusted well and the players executed the plan perfectly. This is the mentality we need going into the final,” he said.

Team captain Mercy Moim also lauded the team’s fighting spirit, saying the loss in the first set served as a wake-up call.

KCB have been dominant throughout the tournament, topping Pool D without dropping a set after wins over Vipers and Partners of Nigeria, ARSU of Seychelles, and Litto Team Volleyball of Cameroon.

They continued their fine form in the knockout stages, beating GLC of Burundi in the Round of 16 and Mayo Kano Evolution in the quarter-finals.

KCB will now face the winner between Egypt’s Al Ahly and Tunisia’s CFC in the final, as they aim to clinch the continental title.

The victory highlights KCB Bank’s continued investment in sports development, supporting various disciplines including volleyball, football, rugby, athletics, chess, and golf.